One of my all-time favorite Matchbox models is the newer Ford GT, which was released in 2005. The model is wonderfully done, and to me it is the model that ushered in the “Last Golden Age” at Matchbox.
But I could not say the same for Hot Wheels. The Ford GT40 done a few years earlier is nice, but could have been better. Things got really worse with the topless GTX-1, which was completely out of proportion and seemed badly “scrunched”. But Hot Wheels corrected things with the Ford GT LM.
The model is sport, the wing is large but looks cool, and all the details are there. Of course when the Ford GT LM was announced by Hot Wheels, I had to google it, and I learned that it was a bit of a fantasy car, and was part of the Gran Turismo video game. All I knew is the car in black with GT markings was fantastic, and I assumed that version was coming.
What I didn’t know is that at the time, Mattel didn’t have the Gran Turismo license. So we got a lot of versions outside of the actual GT LM. Well the license is here, and not only is the black Ford GT LM finally here, so are 7 other cars sporting racing liveries from the Gran Tursimo video game.
The set is out in the UK, and will be out in the US soon, although not exactly where you think they might be found. Walmart won’t be carrying them, but smaller stores and hobby dealers like A&J Toys and Wheel Collectors will. I got a set from my UK-based Lamley partner David Tilley, and I opened them here:
Enjoy.
A full photo feature is coming soon. In the meantime, which is highest on your want list?
“Of course when the Ford GT LM was announced by Hot Wheels, I had to google it, and I learned that it was a bit of a fantasy car, and was part of the Gran Turismo video game.”
Not necessarily a bit of a fantasy car. While it looks like a mishmash of different Ford GT eras, the casting itself is based on the Ford GT1, which is a real race car that was made by Matech Competition for the old GT1 category.
The Ford GT, Nissan Skyline and Pagani Huayra are probably my top 3 from this bunch. I don't think these will be hitting stores anywhere near me so I'm gonna have to try other ways. Oh, and please do the showcase soon! Can't wait for it!
The blue scheme on the Pagani was for a special 20+ car package on GT6 celebrating the 15th anniversary. The Ford GT is the signature car for the game as it's Kazunori Yamauchi's favorite. Love this set!
John, it's pronounced hwy-ra.
I just ordered 130 cases!!! Cannot wait
Great sourcing tip. Thank you!
Very cool to see Mattel continuing with the themed 8-Car sets. Really a great outlet for collectors to get 1$ cars with nice casting choice and card art. I will probably pass on most of these as they don't really fit with my collection but I know most will enjoy! I'll check out your video later on!
How do you know Walmart won't be carrying this set? If Walmart won't be carrying this set will retail stores like Target, Kmart,or Toys R Us be carrying this assortment?
I know I'm late, but what is that 3D printed model on the turntable at the beginning? You never mentioned what it was of or why it was there. Thanks.