Just Republished: The Diecast Car Calendar - 2016

It's almost a new year and it's time for a new calendar.  If you've been looking for a calendar that reflects your love to die-cast cars from companies like Hot Wheels, Johnny Lightning, Matchbox, and Maisto, check out my new calendar.  I've finally brought together some of my coolest diecast car photos and published a calendar.  If you enjoy diecast cars, you can see them every month with this 12-month 2016 calendar.  This is a reprint of the 2015 calendar.

You can preview the new 2016 calendar here:

Matchbox VW W12 Nardo Super Car Concept

VW has a reputation as a maker of cars for common folks!  It's right in the name: Volks wagen.  

Photo By dalbera from Paris, France [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

But, that doesn't mean that they can make some really fast cars, too.  Over the years, Volkswagens like the Scirocco and the GTI have burned rubber and thrilled legions of buyers.  In 1997, Volkswagen designers unleashed their full speed potential with a concept car called the Volkswagen W12.  Also called the Nardo, it was powered by a 5.6 liter 12 cylinder engine that generated just over 414 horsepower! 

VW W12 Syncro Concept:  Photo by Darren (Flickr) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

It was such an exciting car that it was even featured in video games.  While VW never put it into production, Matchbox did.  That's why I was able to add the exotic VW W12 below into my collection!

Matchbox VW W12 Nardo Concept Car

Matchbox Corvette ZR1

Even standing still this Matchbox looks dramatic and fast.  It was a sad day when I discovered that I couldn't fit comfortably in a real Chevrolet Corvette.  But, the Matchbox version is far less expensive and really cheap to insure!

Matchbox Corvette ZR1

If you are looking for a specific Matchbox Corvette ZR1, Amazon is a good place to start.  But, to be honest, your local Toys 'R Us is probably less expensive and more fun!

Hess Truck - A 2007 Hess Monster Truck

Yesterday, I ran across this unusual collectible Hess truck at a local thrift store.  It's a Monster Truck with a flame job and a Hess logo.  I've known Hess truck collectors in the past and I always thought that the collection was limited to gas station fuel trucks and fire trucks.  This one was quite different.

2007 HESS Monster Truck

The 50 year tradition of Hess Truck collecting didn't die with the Hess service station chain.  Today it lives on as evidenced by this Hess Toy Truck Blog.  As it turns out, this Hess Monster truck was part of a set sold in 2007 with two toy motorcycles.  Amazingly, it is still available in some online outlets:

Hot Wheels 1970 Chevy Camaro Road Race

This is the Hot Wheels '70 Camaro Road Race.  It's a beautiful red rendition of the 1970 Chevrolet Camaro.  According to the original review of the 1970 Camaro by Car and Driver, the 1970 Camaro offered high performance in a package that was a bit more refined than it's wilder predecessors. 

Hot Wheels 1970 Chevy Camaro Road Race

The 1970 Camaro Z/28 sported a 0-60 time of 5.8 seconds with an automatic transmission and a 350 cubic inch V-8 engine.  However, hotter powerplants were available for the daring.

The original 1970 Camaro came in at $4,475.70.  Today's Z/28 is a dedicated track car that comes in with a base price of $75,000.  Mine cost about a dollar.  With a 0 to 60 time of 4.4 seconds and a 7.0 liter V-8, the modern Z/28 is a monster.

If you are looking to add a diecast 1970 Camaro to your collection, you'll find them available at a variety of price points on Amazon.com

Hot Wheels Lamborghini Sesto Elemento

The Lamborghini Sesto Elemento (or Sixth Element) is the newest addition to my Hot Wheels collection.  This Hot Wheels version looks like a stealth fighter done in white.

The real Lamborghini Sesto Elemento has an ultra-lightweight carbon-fiber body and is powered by a 5.2 liter V-10 engine that produces 570 horsepower.  In a car that weighs less than a Honda Fit, this produces 0 to 60 times of around 2.5 seconds. 

Of course, I don't flog my Lamborghini like that.  Mine is strictly for static display and taking a slow roll across an end table or desk.  If you want to see road test, check out this video:

For a cool die-cast version of the Sesto Elemento, check out this diecast Lamborghini from AutoArt and this lower cost rendition from Hot Wheels:

Hot Wheels Lotus M250 Concept Car

This tiny Lotus is one of the flowers of my Hot Wheels collection.  It's the famed Lotus M250 Concept Car. 

Hot Wheels Lotus M250

According to Diseno-Art.com, the Lotus M250 was a concept car created to fit into the Lotus line-up between the Lotus Elise and Lotus Esprit.  It had a top speed of 155 miles per hour with a 0-60 time of 4.9 seconds.  While the M250 never made it into production, aspects of the design were implemented in other Lotus sports cars.

You can find more information about the Hot Wheels Lotus M250 on the Hot Wheels Wiki page.  If you've got some stuff you've been meaning to buy on Amazon, it's super easy to add this beauty to your order.

Hot Wheels Cadillac LMP Race Car

Between 2000 and 2002, Cadillac re-entered the world of racing with its Cadillac Northstar LMP race car.  It was raced in the American LeMans series and appeared in the 24 Hours of Daytona and 12 Hours of Sebring races.  The car was based on the famed Cadillac Northstar V-8 engine.

Hot Wheels Cadillac LMP Race Car

While the car was not triumphant, it did well for a fledgling effort.  Cadillac Northstar LMP cars had several Top 10 finishes and often recorded fastest laps.  However, GM pulled the plug on Cadillac racing efforts.

Hot Wheels Cadillac LMP Race Car

If you'd like to pick up one of these unique and historic Cadillac race cars for your own collection, check this one out:

The Rarest Ferrari - Ferrari 250 GTO

The Ferrari 250 GTO is one of rarest cars to wear the prancing stallion logo.  According to Ferrari by Dennis Adler, only 39 Ferrari 250 GTO road/race cars were produced between 1962 and 1964.


The car produced over 300 horsepower from a powerful V-12 engine.  The top speed was 280 kilometers per hour.

 Ferrari 250 GTO from the Ralph Lauren Collection, Photo by SFoskett Wikimedia Commons (Creative Commons License)

These extremely rare cars are among the most expensive cars on the planet.  In recent years, the Ferrari 250 GTO has sold for as high as $52 million.  The most recent one to sell went for $38 million.  For those of use with more modest means,a die-cast 1/18 scale Ferrari 250 GTO like this one from Bburago is a great addition to any collection.

If you'd like to add one to your collection, there are a few diecast Ferrari 250 GTO models to choose from -

Matchbox Dodge Charger Speed Trap - Auburn Hills Police

This Matchbox Dodge Charger police car does a great job on speed trap duty.  It's from the Matchbox MBX Metal Series that was sold in the 2006-2007 timeframe.  It's just waiting for the Corvette in the background to roar to life.

Matchbox Dodge Charger Police Car

I was fortunate to get mine at a toy store when they first came out.  But, if you are looking to get one for your collection, they are still available here:

Ferrari 250 GT Spyder California

The Ferrari 250 GT Spyder Calfornia is a most beautiful and understated classic from the late 1950s and early 1960s. It came in long wheel base and short wheel base versions.

Ferrari 250 GT Spyder California LWB:  Photo By CCBain (Own work) [CC-BY-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

The long wheel base version has a long, elegant, hood and is 30 centimeters longer than the shorter version.  While the short wheel base version of this Ferrari has a slightly wider stance and a little more power.  Even according to Ferrari, it is difficult to tell the cars apart.

 

Ferrari 250 GT Spyder California:  Photo by Herranderssvensson (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 250 GT Spyder California SWB:  Photo By richebets [CC-BY-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Both are powered by a 60-degree V-12 that displaced around 3-liters.  The short wheel base version had 280 horsepower on tap at 7000 rpm.   Both versions had luxurious interiors that made them rewarding cars for daily driving.  Today, the legendary Ferrari California name lives on in current spyders.

If you'd like a beautiful diecast model of the Ferrari 250 GT Spyder California, there are several to choose from -

Diecast Chysler PT Cruiser

When it comes to retro-looks and retro-style for an affordable price, one car comes to mind: the Chrysler PT Cruiser.
 

2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser

The compact 5-door hatchback was produced from 2001 through 2010. It borrowed styling influences from Chrysler sedans of the 1930s. It officially counted as a light truck for Chrysler's average fuel economy calculations.

While the car was praised for styling and was initially one of the cutest retro cars on the market, it eventually was criticized for poor crash safety test results for side-impacts.  While there were some turbo versions available, the car was also criticized by enthusiasts for lackluster performance.  While the PT Cruiser was no Ferrari, it was an opportunity for average middle class people to buy an economical car with a strong sense of style.  It was also very practical as a people and grocery hauler.  Today, many people remain loyal to the retro look of the PT Cruiser.

Since many people remain loyal to the PT Cruiser, there are many interesting Diecast Chrysler PT Cruisers on Amazon.  Collectors love them!

The First Touring Ferrari - 1951 Ferrari 212

In the early days, Enzo Ferrari was always focused on racing.  But, The Ferrari 212 marked an important milestone in the history of the marque.  In the early 1950s, it was the first Ferrari touring car.  It brought luxury and performance to Ferrari customers.

Photo By Punere (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

From a modern perspective, it is interesting to note that the Ferrari 212 Inter was powered by a 2.5 liter V-12 engine that produced 180 horsepower.  The engine displaced just a little more than a typical 4-cylinder economy car today. However, three Weber carburators ensured the delivery of plenty of air and fuel.

1952 Ferrari 212 Vignale Coupe Photo By Stephen Foskett (Wikipedia User: sfoskett) (Imperial Palace Auto Collections, Las Vegas, NV) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html), CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/) or CC-BY-SA-2.5-2.0-1.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5-2.0-1.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

 Today you can own a smaller scale Ferrari 212 of your own!

Hot Wheels Style: A Poor Man's Pebble Beach Concours D'Elegance

Concours D'Elegance car shows are a venue for the public to see the finest and rarest motorcars in existence.  These rare cars are lovingly maintained, restored to better than new, and shown in a classy setting.  Worth millions, these show cars are the epitome of style and sophistication.

However, if you don't have millions, Matchbox and Hot Wheels make it easy to stage your own Concours D'Elegance for a fraction of the price.  My Ferrari collection (shown below) is lovingly maintained in Hot Wheels carriers. 

Today, I bring together $8, or perhaps $9, worth of the rarest Ferrari's in my collection.  You can see them here, but you'll have to make your own Martinis and light Hor's D'ouvres!

Jaguar XK120: The Post-War Jag

Jaguar had intended to resume SS100 production after World War II, but the new era called for a new car.  The marque introduced the Jaguar XK120 in 1948. It featured a more aerodynamic form and more powerful.  The XK series also became a legend on the racing circuit.

Jaguar XK120 - Photo by Jlotman (Rod Hatfield) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0) or GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html)], via Wikimedia Commons

According to Wikipedia, in 1949, a Jaguar XK120 reached a record 132.6 miles per hour in speed runs at raceway in Belgium. It was a fast car for its time. Today, it is popular car among diecast car collectors.


Here is a video review of the Jaguar XK120:

The First Ferrari - The Type 125S

The first Ferrari was the Type 125S.  It made its debut in 1947 and was powered by a 1.5 liter V-12 engine.  It won 6 of 14 races that year including the Grand Prix of Rome.

By Herranderssvensson (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

 The Ferrari 125S came in a Spyder Corsa version and a full-bodied roadster version.  The Roadster version is readily available as a die-cast car.

Here is a Ferrari 125s seting forth into traffic as part of a relay:

Jaguar SS100 - The Foundation of a Sporting Marque

Jaguar was born as the Swallow Sidecar Company in 1922.  Success in building aerodynamic sidecars for motorcycles led them to creating beautiful coachwork for cars. In 1926, the company moved to a larger facility and was renamed the Swallow Sidecar and Coachbuilding Company.  They were soon making coachwork for the popular Austin Seven.

By Brian Snelson from Hockley, Essex, England (Jaguar SS100 motif) [CC-BY-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

 Over the ensuing decade, the company evolved from making body work for chassis from Austin to getting chassis made for them to making complete cars.  In 1935, the company became known as SS Jaguar.  The SS 100 was their first bona fide sports car and it solidified the companies reputation. 

The SS Jaguar 100 was first made with a 2.6 liter engine that could do 0 to 60 in 12.3 seconds with a top speed of 94 miles per hour.  When more displacement was offered in the form of a 3.5 liter engine, the first cat leapt to a blistering 101 miles per hour with a 10.9 second 0 to 60 time.  The car  won the 1938 Alpine Rally.

Add captionBy Solander (User created) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/)], via Wikimedia Commons

Today, you can own a diecast replica of the car from Amazon.

Die-cast Test Drive: Maisto 1:24 Scale 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Model Review

Modern MOPAR Power and Looks Depicted in a Maisto Die-cast Model If you love modern muscle cars, you might enjoy this 1:24 scale die-cast model from Maisto. It captures the essence of a powerful MOPAR masterpiece in an affordable metal model for your desk. I'd love to have a modern muscle car. If I close my eyes, I can imagine the throaty rumble of an idling V-8. I can hear the engine roaring and see myself rushing onto the highway at alarming speed. Of course, as an adult, I can also envision hefty insurance premiums, expensive fill-ups, and the fines associated with a "super-speeder" ticket. Mid-life crisis cars aren't cheap. But, the vision and the dream always lurk in the recesses of my mind. That's why it was fun to recently pick up a 1:24 scale die-cast model of the powerful Dodge Challenger SRT8 on a whim. It adds a little flavor to the dream.

Criteria. We can all imagine what it would be like to drive a real Dodge Challenger SRT8. We can see it, taste it, smell it, and yearn for it. But, how does the Maisto 1:24 scale Dodge Challenger SRT8 stack up? Is it a good rendition of the real car? Is it well made? Is it a good value? Those are the questions that this review will strive to answer.

Accuracy. A quick Bing image search will reveal plenty of beautiful photographs of the real life 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8. It's an exciting car. The Maisto Dodge Challenger SRT8 model captures much of that excitement. It's a $10 to $15 model. But, it captures the lines well. The model has the same classic 5-spoke muscle car wheels. The hood opens and the engine looks just like the engine of the real SRT8 right down to the hose leading from the air filter compartment to the engine. Since this is an inexpensive model, the entire engine compartment is just a molded piece of plastic that depicts the real engine compartment in relief. Paint is used sparingly but accurately. As you move along the body, you'll find that the door handles and fuel cap are merely impressions in the metal. On the real car, the fuel cap offers a shiny chrome contrast to the cars body. The interior compares well to pictures of the real car. The steering wheel, center console, and seats appear surprisingly accurate. The instrument cluster is represented by a sticker that shows a wider separation between the instruments than is pictured in the real car. For less than $20, the Maisto Dodge Challenger SRT8 is a great rendition of the popular muscle car.

Workmanship. The fit and finish of the Miasto SRT8 are very good for a mass produced die-cast model. The doors and hood fit well. The front wheels were steerable, but not with the steering wheel. The body and bumpers fit together well. The rear view mirrors were actually shiny, but in normal handling one of them came just a little loose. If this car were used by kids for actual play, the mirrors would probably come off easily. I didn't see any obvious flaws in the paint, decals, or stickers. If you look closely at the wheels, you might think you detect a hint of flashing (excess plastic), but even using a magnifying glass it isn't obvious. This model is surprisingly well made.

Value. The Maisto 1:24 scale Dodge Challenger SRT8 successfully evokes the image and style of it's real life namesake. It's well detailed and doesn't have any disturbing flaws. Overall, I believe this Maisto model is a good value for the money. It looks great on a desk or a shelf. Most importantly, you can grab it, close your eyes, and dream of burning rubber.

My Pink Cadillac: A Hot Wheels 1969 Cadillac Sedan deville

Is there any Cadillac more immortalized in song than the Pink Cadillac?  I recently took my diecast Cadillac for a spin.  It's a Hot Wheels 1969 Cadillac Sedan de Ville.  In real life, this car was powered by a 7730 cc (7.7 liters or 472 cubic inch) engine!

Sometimes, it's what you see in the background that is more fun than the foreground.  As this Corvette and Black Cadillac illustrate.

This Pink Cadillac is the perfect match for our blooming Azalea bushes.

 The only question:  Which version of Pink Cadillac do you prefer?

Matchbox Monday: the Morgan AeroMax

My Morgan AeroMax is one of the glamour queens of my collection.  It always looks good.

Matchbox Morgan AeroMax

In real life, the Morgan AeroMax is powered by a 4400cc BMW V-8 engine and tops out around 170 miles per hour.  0 to 60 times are around 4 seconds!  The Matchbox version is a tad slower.  This car is a work of art!

Hot Wheels Hump Day - Toyota 2000GT

This Toyota 2000GT from Hot Wheels looks great!  Only 337 of these special cars were ever made by Toyota.  Production ran from 1967 through 1970.  But, the short run of the 2000 GT proved that Japan could make a sports car to rival any that the world had to offer.  Today, the 2000GT is a very rare and valuable car.  Many consider it the first truly collectible Japanese car.

Hot Wheels Toyota 2000 GT