1978, marks the official transition to the long term use of the basic mag wheel sets both front and rear without the redline strip for Mattel in its main line production run. Often refered to as Black Wheels by collectors this tire is still in use today. There were seven new segment series names used for the different car group issued that year. Segment names are Heavies, Speedway Specials, Classy Customs, Oldies But Goodies, Rescue Team, Drag Strippers and Super Streeters. Each of the 45 castings distributed were first introduced during the Redline Era.
In 1979, Mattel teamed up with Marvel to introduce "Scene Machines". This group of 6 cars worked as a slide viewer with a single image unique to each casting of a Marvel Cartoon Character visible through the rear viewing portal.
In 1981, a thinner wheel and axel design was developed for the "The Hot Ones" Series. This allowed Mattel to reclaim the "Fastest Non Powered Metal Cars" title. Real Riders and the Extras series also appeared/continued(??)
In 1988, "Color Racers" are introduced that changed body color, stripes, numbers and tampo color when dipped into different temperatured water.
In 1990, Larry Woods design of the Purple Passion is noted to be a major up tick in the design element and direction of Hot Wheels.
In 1991, Mattel commemorates its one billionith car produced with a 4 car set of gold chromed Corvettes mounted atop removable trophies. The instant win coupon for a real 1963 Corvette Roadster prize was never claimed.
A WIP, here are the currently referenced resources (with additional information yet to be added) -
https://hotwheels.mattel.com/en-us/explore/HW_50th/index.html
NCHWA.com 1978 Hot Wheels Price Guide
In 1979, Mattel teamed up with Marvel to introduce "Scene Machines". This group of 6 cars worked as a slide viewer with a single image unique to each casting of a Marvel Cartoon Character visible through the rear viewing portal.
In 1981, a thinner wheel and axel design was developed for the "The Hot Ones" Series. This allowed Mattel to reclaim the "Fastest Non Powered Metal Cars" title. Real Riders and the Extras series also appeared/continued(??)
In 1988, "Color Racers" are introduced that changed body color, stripes, numbers and tampo color when dipped into different temperatured water.
In 1990, Larry Woods design of the Purple Passion is noted to be a major up tick in the design element and direction of Hot Wheels.
In 1991, Mattel commemorates its one billionith car produced with a 4 car set of gold chromed Corvettes mounted atop removable trophies. The instant win coupon for a real 1963 Corvette Roadster prize was never claimed.
A WIP, here are the currently referenced resources (with additional information yet to be added) -
https://hotwheels.mattel.com/en-us/explore/HW_50th/index.html
NCHWA.com 1978 Hot Wheels Price Guide
