I still recall having a conversation with him on Yahoo Messenger. His username was a variation of Tupac and Makavelli. Whenever I feel a sense of longing for those years, I listen to songs like “To Live and Die in LA,” “How Do You Want It,” or “Dear Mama,” among others that I enjoy. And it was this train of thought that led me to today’s topic: the 1996 Hot Wheels Treasure Hunt series.
Tupac passed away on September 13, 1996, which was a tragic day for his fans worldwide. However, let’s delve into some other events that took place in that year. Nintendo released the N64 video game console, and we all have fond memories of playing Super Mario 64 on it. Since I only had a PC at home, I had easier access to iD Software’s Quake. I’ve also noticed many Heroes of Might and Magic enthusiasts reminiscing about the second installment in the series, appropriately titled The Succession Wars. Now, what about movies?
Despite it being one of the biggest films of 1996, I have yet to watch Trainspotting. Recently, I discovered Primal Fear, starring Richard Gere and Edward Norton. And I’ve always been a huge fan of Independence Day and Mars Attacks. In 1996, Valentino Rossi made his debut in the 125cc class and secured the fifth position overall with Aprilia.
Mick Doohan claimed the championship title in the 500cc class. Makinen emerged victorious in the WRC, while Damon Hill achieved top honors in Formula 1. Now, let’s talk about road-going vehicles. Think about the Audi S8, Lotus Elise, and Ferrari 550. However, 1996 also marked the introduction of the Porsche 986 chassis.
I would still love to own a Boxster today! One of my friends who owns an RX-7 also has a Nissan Stagea with an RB25DET engine and AWD. The Japanese automaker launched this model in 1996 and sold various versions until 2001. But let’s shift our focus back to Mattel and see which TH models didn’t make it onto my Top 5 list for today. I firmly believe that those who have a fondness for the ’30s and ’40s would have chosen to include the Woodie, the Auburn 852, and the ’37 Bugatti here.
I had a hard time excluding the Dodge Ram 1500 and the ’58 Corvette. I’ve already discussed the ’57 Chevy in a previous article, and the ’59 Caddy also came close to the top. If you find it difficult to decide between them, you know what to do. Look for the 1996 Hot Wheels Treasure Hunt set of 12 collectibles: it typically sells for $300 to $500 on eBay.
Ferrari 250Photo: eBay/User randrcollectables 123
The Ferrari 250 was the third Treasure Hunt model in the 1996 lineup. Larry Wood was the designer behind this casting, and it remained in the market from 1991 to 2009. During that time, there were 26 different variations. I won’t delve into the issue of Mattel-Ferrari licensing here, as it is a source of sadness for all of us that it ended about a decade ago.
For the initial releases, the diecast manufacturer painted the car in yellow and alternated between several wheel designs. In 1995, the Metallic Dark Red 250 almost resembled a Premium model, except for the 7-spoke wheels. It’s somewhat counterintuitive that the 1996 Treasure Hunt features a Metallic Grey paint job, but there is enough red to emphasize its heritage.
The least expensive 250 I’ve seen on eBay costs $30. However, you could potentially spend up to $75 for a perfectly preserved card. If this variation has piqued your interest in classic Ferrari race cars, there are still a few other thrilling models to consider. I would recommend searching for any items with Real Riders wheels, such as the black Fao Schwarz version and the red Milestone Moments 250. Additionally, don’t overlook the Ferrari Racers series, despite the slightly less attractive Co-Molded rims.
Jaguar XJ220Photo: eBay/User randrcollectables 123
When it comes to prestige, the Jaguar XJ220 falls slightly below the 250. However, if given the opportunity, it would easily surpass it on the highway. You can still purchase an XJ220 for less than $1 million. If that’s not within your budget, the diecast route is the next best option.
Larry Wood is the creative force behind this casting as well. It made its debut in the 1993 Mainline series with a Metalflake Silver finish and Ultrahot wheels. Mattel went through several rather tedious variations before introducing the 1996 Treasure Hunt XJ220. The Metalflake Dark Green color perfectly suits this model, and the gold wheels are a perfect match.
The diecast manufacturer stopped using the PC5 rim design in 2002, so it is less common to come across. The price range for the XJ220 is more affordable, ranging from as low as $20 to as high as $50. In 2010, the XJ220 became part of the Speed Machines collection and received CM6 wheels. However, Mattel should pay more attention to this British supercar. Imagine a Premium casting of the XJ220 TWR or a Red Line Club exclusive model!
Dodge Viper RT/10Photo: eBay/User Tammy’s Diecast Cars
Larry Wood collaborated with Michael Kollins on the design of the Dodge Viper RT/10 casting. It made its debut in the 1993 Mainline series, and Mattel released 16 variations before unveiling the 1996 Treasure Hunt model. The Employee Holiday Release is the first notable model that features the same wheels as the XJ220 TH.
The Dodge Showroom Viper RT/10 that came before the Treasure Hunt version used PC5 rims, which are the predecessor of the Real Riders Exotic design. Switching back to the PC6 wheels, the RT/10 TH had a white-on-white appearance. The blue stripes down the middle added a touch of excitement. Without them, the whole thing wouldn’t have been as impressive.
Some collectors are asking $80 for this collectible, but a budget of $30 could also solve your problem. This casting had a second run as a Treasure Hunt in 2020. However, if you’re interested in one with Real Riders wheels, look for the early 21st-century variations. The Hall of Fame: Legends RT/10 can be purchased for less than $15, and it’s surprising that the same applies to the black and yellow All Tune & Lube Promotional variation.
Ferrari 355Photo: eBay/User boogs diecast metropolis
The Ferrari 355 was the eighth Treasure Hunt model in the 1996 series. This casting made its debut in 1995. Interestingly, all the variations released that year featured a yellow finish.
There were a variety of wheel designs to choose from. The 1996 Treasure Hunt 355 emits a Miami Vice feel with its Pearl White exterior and gold PC5 rims. The tan interior is also a major positive. It’s worth noting that the 355 TH has detailed taillights, but it would have been nice if the design department had also painted the headlights. We will never know. Considering the history of this vehicle, it is unlikely to be found for less than $50.
On the opposite end, prices can reach up to $100. If you believe that is too expensive, it’s best not to even search for the 2008 Ferrari Racer variations. So far, the 1996 Treasure Hunt series has been quite impressive. However, we are still waiting for more.
The Lamborghini Countach was the tenth vehicle in the 1996 Treasure Hunt series. It is great to see another popular Italian car on the list, especially after the inclusion of two Ferraris, a Jaguar XJ220, and the Dodge Viper. Mattel has produced several Hot Wheels Countach models, including an exclusive creation for the Red Line Club.
When this particular version was introduced in 1988, it came with a white paint job and Ultrahot wheels. The diecast manufacturer developed 20 different versions before unveiling the Countach Treasure Hunt in 1996.
An Orange Lamborghini is always a good choice. Collectors have noticed two slightly different variations of this TH: one with PC6 wheels and the other with PC5 rims. Personally, I would choose the latter every time. It may be difficult to come across, as it could be either a rare find or an error model.
According to the Source autoevolution.com