Toys, cartoons, or playing video games can be a touchy subject in the States. Being involved with any three of those items can cast you in the nerd or the uncool kids category. Yet, somehow, even in my twenties, I’m affiliated with all three of those commodities (though for better or for worst, I haven’t played video games since my last year in college) and social life has still stayed intact. I even ended up running this sweet brand called Fitted Life. I’m a nerd and I’m practically fine with that. Besides, what kind of motor guy would I be if I wasn’t into Hot Wheels?

Hot Wheels have been around forever and what’s cool about it is how easily we can relate to these 1:64 scaled cars. I haven’t been in the Hot Wheels game for so long, but even my recent pickups from 2011 to 2012 have left a nice note in my collector’s book. We see cars such as Ken Block’s Ford Fiesta popularized by his rally videos and his insane street exhibitions from Universal Studios to the streets of San Francisco. We also have legendary So-Cal tuners MoonEyes featured in the Hot Wheels collection that stays true to its heritage. No matter what your taste is in cars, there is a make and model that can suit your preference.

To be honest with you all, with all the chaos of working a job on the side, working for my brand, and happily working for our fans and readers, these pastimes can slowly slip away. Luckily enough, I have an awesome cousin who knows what’s up in the car world today and who introduced me to Hot Wheel collecting. Even before Hot Wheels, my cousin and I used to be in the Import Tuner scene, so we were no strangers to toy collections. With the selection of Hot Wheels nowadays, it’s actually becoming a cool hobby for motor enthusiast!

2011 was a good year for Japanese motor enthusiast as it introduced some very cool classic Japanese cars. With a great Hot Wheels designer such as Jun Imai, it was possible for Japanese car enthusiast to own Kenmeri and Hakosuka Skylines in Hot Wheels format. These are becoming a treasure among collectors and nowadays it’s tough to find these at your local store’s shelves.

Besides the Japanese classics, I’m a huge sucker for certain American cars dated prior to 1970. I picked up a sweet 69′ Camaro convertible detailed in black. The the Camaro wasn’t my first pick with the hard top, but as a convertible, the Camaro actually looks really good.

2012 also released the 67′ Chevelle SS 396 which is my American dream car. I remember seeing one in person and telling myself, “One day, I’ll be able to own a beast like that!” However, these cars, even in stock and okay condition, can cost around or above $30,000 easily. I’ll stick with the Hot Wheels edition for now.

For 2012, Jun Imai introduced these Hot Wheels inspired by the bosozoku culture of Japan. Mr. Umai dialed in the bosozoku styling right with the crazy colorway, crazy body kit, and the excessive pipes! In true bosozoku style, this Hot Wheels definitely is a show stopper for better or for worst! Gotta love it.

I’ve got a bunch of other Hot Wheels left that I’ll save to share next time. Until then, I’ll be in the search for more neat Hot Wheels, Treasure Hunts or not. As a proud big kid motor enthusiast, keep collecting and keep pursuing your past times, whatever they may be!

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