Hot Wheels, an iconic piece of American pop culture that we all grew up with, and our inner child, still loves them.
Since that first dark blue custom Camaro rolled off the line in 1968, these sleek miniature toy cars with their vibrant colors, detailed designs and innovative features have set the toy world on fire. And it isn’t just kids who were captivated with the miniature marvels, collecting them became a craze that adults relished in as well.
Introducing new models has been a constant for Hot Wheels. Early designs like the Twin Mill, the Red Baron, and the Snake and Mongoose drag racing duo. The cars not only look incredible but perform exceptionally well on Hot Wheels tracks, adding an exciting element of racing to the playtime experience. The brand’s success has led to countless special editions, collaborations with automotive companies and a dedicated collector’s community.
It’s no wonder that for the sixth year, Hot Wheels Legends Tour is back, celebrating five decades of car culture. The Tour is making stops in several states before the Grand Finale livestream event takes place on November 11th, looking for the next custom-made fan car worthy of being immortalized as a 1:64th scale Hot Wheels die-cast vehicle. More than 10,000 cars are expected to compete in 2023.
Of the dozens of stops, only one custom car build will be selected to be inducted into the Hot Wheels Garage of Legends and the die-cast will be sold to millions around the world. Past winners include one-of-a-kind creations that have one thing in common, they all are unmistakably Hot Wheels that scream extreme and exotic iterations of road-going cars.
Previous champions include: 2 Jet Z (2018), 1957 Nash Metropolitan (2019), 1970 Pontiac Trans Am (2020), 1969 Volvo P1800 Gasser (2021) and the “Texas Toot,” an ultra-custom 1992 Autozam Scrum micro truck (2022).
For many automotive enthusiasts and custom car builders, their first “car” was indeed a Hot Wheels die-cast. These 1:64 scale Hot Wheels served as the spark that ignited a lifelong passion for cars and a lifestyle built around creativity and imagination. This was the case on the Legend’s Tour sixth stop in Dallas, as a builder approached me and could not contain his excitement as he pulled a bag out of his pocket and proceeded to show me a well loved Hot Wheel beach van complete with removable surfboards. And yes, as you could guess, we were standing next to his own creation inspired by his childhood toy.
Stepping into the vibrant world of Hot Wheels as a judge was almost like walking thru a portal and into a miniature universe buzzing with excitement and passion of young and old enthusiasts alike, each eager to showcase their meticulous works of art.
As a judge, I felt an immediate rush of nostalgia, surrounded by a sea of colorful Hot Wheel cars and dedicated collectors. The air was filled with the scent of rubber tires and buzzing conversations about car modifications.
While walking among the rows and rows of custom creations, my first task was to evaluate the design and craftsmanship of these life size wonders. Each car, like its owner, had a unique personality, from sleek and polished to rugged and customized. I looked at creativity, paint jobs, decals, and intricate details.
The camaraderie among the participants was heartwarming. The dedication and hours they have poured into their cars was astonishing. The stories I heard throughout the day were as delightful as the cars themselves. The owners shared tips, engaged in friendly banter, and had pictures to share of the process of their build. Despite the competition, there was an unmistakable sense of community; a shared love for these wonders that transcended age or background.
After a few hours had passed, it was time for the judges to convene and deliberate. We all agreed on one thing, it felt next to impossible to have to choose just one winner.
Finally, after a tie-breaking vote, the winner was announced: a restored 1971 De Tomaso Pantera. This was a 14 year project of passion, from what the owner called a “rust-bucket,” to a custom wide body masterpiece. Seeing the joy of winner, Dave’s face and the admiration from fellow collectors was truly rewarding. Congratulations Dave! And stay tuned, I, among millions, look forward to the Pantera’s appearance the Hot Wheels Legends Tour Semi-Finals.
At the end of the day, I left with this…..This event proved to be about so much more than evaluating cars, it was about being a part of a community that celebrated the art of cars, the thrill of competition and the Hot Wheels brand. Hot Wheels are more than just a toy, they are a symbol of imagination, innovation and endless possibilities, leaving a permanent mark on the hearts of generations. Hot Wheels remind us that sometimes, even the smallest things can drive the biggest passions.
