Greetings Atticites!
Today I'm going to share a little collection I have that highlights how Mattel was cashing in on all things "Hot Wheels" in the late 60s and early 70s. You see, they had several lines of vehicles that weren't actually "Hot Wheels," but shared the branding. Today we will look at the Zowees!
The Zowees were little cars (about half the size of a regular Hot Wheels) that were first offered as premiums at Shell gas stations in 1972. You got one for free with a fill up, or you could plunk down .49 for one without buying gas.
Here they are!
There were additional cars released in 1973. These were the Fire Truck, Goin' Fishing, Home Sweet Home, Light My Fire, Numb Skull, and Shifty. I don't have any of them because, first of all, I was originally fascinated by something that was given away at gas stations. That really spoke to my childhood. And secondly, they are stupid expensive. You can get a Beddy Bye for under twenty bucks, but Shifty can set you back over a hundred. That's because the retail cars were only made one year. I think they're cool...but not that cool!
So there you have it! A bit of Hot Wheels history in an itty-bitty package!
Until next time, keep searching for treasure!
I've never heard of these! Of course, i was out of high school when they first came out, so I guess that's why. I can see how their small, small size would be attractive.
ReplyDeleteSo these have a cast aluminum base? Or maybe cast iron? Looks like they still have the 'frictionless' Hot Wheels wheels (spring loaded?)
Maybe that "long antenna" on the Covered Draggin was meant to represent the wooden brake handle that real covered wagons had, to slow down the wagon by pressing against the wagon's wheel.
Kinda neat little things, aren't they. Thanks, Stu.
I think they're closer to "pot metal" bases (whatever that is). The wheels use the same wire as the regular cars, but since they're so small they don't have the spring ti them. You could be right about the brake! I hadn't thought of that!
DeleteThanks!
"The main difference is that the 1973 cars are taller. I've heard it was to get around toy safety regulations...."
ReplyDeleteIs that because kids were SWALLOWING them>?!? I hope not!
I never heard of these, but I could see how kids [and adults] have/had fun collecting these.
Thanks, Stu, for sharing..
You know, I almost put that, but I'm not sure about it, lol!
Delete