I recently discussed the Hot Wheels Boulevard series that began in 2020. After a period of four years, Chevrolet had the highest number of cars (11) in this series. The truth is that Mattel had previously used the name Boulevard. Collectors had the option to choose from six different series in 2012 and four mixes in 2013. The company’s collaboration with Walmart resulted in a set of 30 cars, which included five exclusive castings and 25 other vehicles.
It all started with a collection of ten items called “Ahead of its Time.” For this article, I have chosen the five most thrilling ones for a detailed review. However, it is also worth taking a look at the other models. Mattel used Boulevard to introduce the 1934 Chrysler Airflow. Similar to the actual car, this model did not remain in production for long. I made the difficult decision not to include the 1955 Corvette in this list. However, I have previously explored all the different Corvette models and variations ever released by the diecast manufacturer in an entire series.
Next, there is the Buick Grand National, which has an opening hood. The black-on-black appearance would be captivating in real life, but it is different on a 1/64th-scale level. “Ahead of Its Time” also featured two fantasy models: the Phantastique and the Golden Submarine. I would love to see a life-size replica of the latter concept as it would be a fantastic addition to the SEMA Show! But for now, let’s move on and appreciate the best early Boulevard collectibles.
DeLorean DMC-12: eBay/User Power Seller Authority
During the early ’80s, DeLorean produced less than 10,000 DMC-12 units. Many of us grew up seeing it prominently featured in the Back to the Future film series. I even had the opportunity to have my picture taken behind the wheel of the Time Machine at an event many years ago. And in my collection, you will always find one or two Hot Wheels replicas of this iconic car.
Mattel has created various models, including a Red Line Club-exclusive DMC-12. The ’81 DeLorean DMC-12, designed by Manson Cheung, made its debut in the 2010 New Models series. Interestingly, it initially had an opening rear hatch until the company made changes to the design in 2015. Therefore, the 2012 Boulevard version still retains this excellent feature, which is highly sought after by collectors today. It was the fifth variation of this model and the first to have a metal base and Real Riders wheels.
I am a huge admirer of the Turbine rim design, and I would love to see the diecast manufacturer utilize it more frequently. Regardless of the numerous new variations that emerge, silver remains the optimal paint job for this vehicle. The price range for this specific release varies between $40 and $100, but this is just the beginning! The DMC-12 achieved Super Treasure Hunt status in 2015 and made a comeback with another high-quality release as part of the 2021 Boulevard series. Additionally, some of you may recall the DeLorean Collector set from 2023, which included the less desirable Alpha5.
Ferrari F40 Photo: eBay/User phatsgarage
Some may hastily assume that the second vehicle on this list is the finest one from the 2012 Boulevard collection. However, I must urge you to exercise patience. As previously mentioned, Mattel’s Hot Wheels archives conceal numerous surprises. I have been contemplating a review of one-hit wonders for quite some time, but I will delve into that topic later.
For now, let us direct our attention to the Ferrari F40. In the event that you have not yet perused any of my previous Hot Wheels Ferrari articles, it is worth noting that Mattel lost the license to the Chinese May Cheong Grup over a decade ago. This is why market prices for these items can occasionally skyrocket. Larry Wood designed the F40 in the late 1980s, and it made its debut in the 1989 Mainline series. While most of the 36 variations that appeared until 2015 feature a metal base, this does not necessarily make them all premium items. There were five variations with CM6 rims, but only one possessed the coveted feature we all seek.
The 2012 Boulevard F40 sported Real Riders Exotic wheels, and a similar combination was seen in the 2002 Auto Milestones release (although the latter did not have rubber tires.) The two-tone red and black paint job injected excitement into the mix, and it is no surprise that people are listing these for as much as $275. Even a loose F40 will still command a price tag exceeding $100. If Mattel ever manages to reintroduce these collectibles, enthusiasts will undoubtedly go wild for them.
Pontiac Fiero 2M4 Photo: eBay/User 1rance
When contemplating the Pontiac Fiero, what is the first thought that comes to mind? Is it the fact that it fell short of GM’s expectations in terms of success? Or do you recall its modest performance figures? For me, it will forever be remembered as the wannabe Ferrari. This is because nearly 20 years ago, I stumbled upon an F40 parked right next to the building where I would soon attend college.
From a distance, it appeared breathtaking. However, as I approached, I began to comprehend what was happening. Someone had constructed that car using a Pontiac Fiero, and I was simultaneously furious and astonished. A replica Ferrari could be a decent alternative if executed properly, especially if one cannot afford the real deal. I understand that purists may disagree with this sentiment, but the recipe for happiness often involves the ability to “improvise, adapt, overcome!” The Fiero 2M4 is the oldest model on this list, as the Larry Woods-designed casting made its debut in the 1985 “The Hot Ones” series.
Mattel released 17 additional versions until 1997, and then collectors believed it had disappeared for good. However, it made a comeback in 2011 and made a significant impact with its appearance in the 2012 Boulevard series. The use of Real Riders Exotic wheels enhanced the overall look of the casting, and the diecast manufacturer employed the same strategy for the final iteration of the Fiero in 2013 Retro Entertainment series. The prices for the Boulevard version range between $30 and $40, which is reasonable considering its status as a part of diecast history.
Tucker TorpedoPhoto: eBay/User SuchundFind-Stuttgart
Let’s try a quick exercise. I’ll mention an actor, and you can think of the best movie they starred in. Are you ready? Jeff Bridges! I am willing to bet that more than half of you thought of “The Big Lebowski” or perhaps TRON. However, as a car enthusiast, my choice would be Francis Ford Coppola’s “Tucker: The Man and His Dream.”
If you have a passion for cars, this movie is a must-watch. It will evoke a range of emotions: inspiration, sadness, outrage, and happiness. It will also make you curious about Mattel’s Tucker Torpedo model, which unfortunately had a short lifespan, just like the actual car. Larry Wood, the same designer as the Fiero, created this model, and I previously discussed it in my review of the 2011 Super Treasure Hunt series.
The Torpedo also appeared as a Treasure Hunt model that year, but the diecast manufacturer had one more surprise in store. The final version of the Torpedo was released in 2012 as part of the Boulevard series. It featured a stunning Metalflake Copper finish and Moon Disc wheels. It’s the perfect time to listen to some Billboard 100 songs from 1948.
Vector W8 TwinturboPhoto: LamleyGroup
Earlier, I mentioned one-hit wonders. And here it is, the Vector W8 Twinturbo! It’s hard not to feel a sense of sadness when thinking about the fate of Vector Motors. However, I am grateful that the company managed to produce 22 W8s between 1989 and 1993. Although I have yet to see one in person, I have made it a priority to at least experience riding in the passenger seat within the next five years.
The body of the W8 Twinturbo was constructed using a combination of lightweight carbon fiber and kevlar, giving it the appearance of a fighter jet on wheels. If there ever is a remake of the Transformers series in the future, I hope they choose the W8 to portray Starscream! Manson Cheung was the designer behind the W8 Twinturbo, and there is only one version to search for. It looks impressive in red with Real Riders 10-spoke wheels, and I desperately want to add it to my collection. The demand for this model explains why some people are willing to pay as much as $300 for it.
However, if you’re on a budget, you can still find one for around $55 with the right seller. If my discussion of sci-fi-inspired cars has piqued your interest, you’ll be pleased to know that Mattel also created a replica of the WX-3. There are five versions to look for. I can’t wait to uncover more exciting cars as I continue delving into the archives. Rest assured, I will report back once I come across something noteworthy!
According to the Source autoevolution.com