Top 8 Hot Wheels Collectibles That Are Worth a Fortune

Introduced as a rival to Matchbox, Hot Wheels has now sold more than an estimated 6 billion toy cars worldwide. In 2023, the brand marked its 56th year with gross sales exceeding $1.43 billion. Despite facing competition from brands like Micro Machines in the 1980s and Johnny Lightning in the early 1970s, Hot Wheels has consistently ranked as one of the top-selling toys for decades.

At their debut, Hot Wheels cars were priced between 69 and 89 cents, equivalent to roughly $6 to $8 today. Even now, many models are available in the $1 to $10 range. The design and production process for these cars is more complex than it appears, and the brand currently boasts over 20,000 unique models.

Certain models, particularly the original Redline series produced from 1968 to 1977—named for the distinctive red stripe on their tires—can fetch premium prices on the resale market, especially in rare colors. Here are some of the most sought-after Hot Wheels toys currently available on platforms like eBay.

RLC Ford GT-40 Gulf // $95,000

Introduced in 2013, the RLC Ford GT-40 Gulf variant is based on the Ford GT-40 from the 1999 First Editions collection. Featuring the iconic Gulf Racing design, this model was part of the HWC Gulf Racing series available on the Mattel Creations platform (previously known as the Hot Wheels Collectors website). Only 4,000 units of this exclusive model were ever made.

In 2023, a nearly pristine example with its original packaging fetched $95,000 on eBay. Typically, unopened versions of this model range in price from $800 to $3,250 on the platform.

Custom Charger Resin Prototype // $20,000

Larry Wood, a legendary Hot Wheels designer, spent over four decades at Mattel, creating more than 500 car designs and numerous unique prototypes. This particular model is one of his rare creations and comes with a certificate of authenticity personally signed by Wood.

Inspired by the 1969 Dodge Charger, the Custom Charger was available in multiple Spectraflame finishes, where a translucent color coat was applied over chrome to achieve a vibrant, metallic appearance. In October 2021, a green 1969 Redline Custom Charger sold for $20,000 on eBay, while another fetched $15,000 in August 2020. Generally, these models sell for between $100 and $500 on the platform.

Olds 442 // $16,000

The 1971 Olds 442 is among the most elusive Hot Wheels collectibles. Modeled after the 1970 Oldsmobile 442, it features a white interior and is finished in Spectraflame hues, consistent with other Redline models from that era.

This model commands high prices regardless of its color: A pink 1971 Olds 442 in its original packaging sold for over $16,000 on eBay in October 2020. A metallic red variant fetched over $5,700 in 2018, while an apple-green version in blister packaging brought in over $5,600 in 2020. In near-mint condition, these models often sell for over $1,000 on the secondary market.

‘55 Chevy Bel Air Gasser Candy Striper // $15,500

While Redline models dominate this list, newer Hot Wheels cars can also fetch impressive resale prices. The ‘55 Chevy Bel Air Gasser, released in 2013, was produced in various colors, with the Candy Striper variant being a favorite among collectors. Discontinued in 2015, only 4,000 units of this variant were made, enhancing its desirability. (A now-closed Redline Club fundraiser aimed to revive this model, attracting nearly 6,000 supporters willing to pay up to $250 each.)

Although many Candy Striper variants sell for around $100 to $200 on eBay, pristine examples can exceed $1,000. In 2018, a blister-packaged version with pink roof stripes sold for $15,500. Another fetched $3,850 in 2023.

Custom Barracuda // $15,000

Collectors refer to the inaugural Hot Wheels lineup as the Sweet 16. The 1968 Custom Barracuda, inspired by the 1967 Plymouth Barracuda, is part of this series. Designed by Harry Bradley, the first Hot Wheels designer, this model was manufactured in both the U.S. and Hong Kong from 1968 to 1969. Subtle differences exist between the two production locations, such as U.S. models featuring clear glass and Hong Kong versions having blue-tinted glass.

The Custom Barracuda was later redesigned and renamed the King Kuda in 1970. Mint-condition, blister-packaged Custom Barracudas can command over $15,000, as seen in a 2020 eBay sale. Various colors, including aqua and light blue Hong Kong-made versions, have sold for at least $3,000 each.

Mustang Stocker // $13,000

Introduced in 1975 as part of the Flying Colors series, the Mustang Stocker initially featured Redline wheels and was available in enamel white, enamel yellow, or chrome finishes. Over time, the car underwent several redesigns, with variations depending on its manufacturing origin. Hong Kong-produced models had black interiors, while those made in France, Mexico, and Malaysia during the early 1980s came with yellow or tan interiors.

After being discontinued around 1984, the Mustang Stocker was relaunched in 2006 and remained in production until 2010, resulting in numerous versions. A pristine 1975 enamel white model still in its original packaging sold for nearly $13,000 in 2022. However, most examples sell for less: A yellow variant fetched $2,400 in 2023, while a chrome version went for just under $1,000 in 2022.

Custom Camaro // $12,000

The 1968 Custom Camaro is a cherished piece among collectors, being part of the Sweet 16 and the very first Hot Wheels toy ever released. Finding one in mint condition is exceptionally rare, but owning one could net you as much as $12,000, as demonstrated by a 2023 eBay sale. Most used models, however, typically sell for a few hundred dollars.

Rodger Dodger // $8000

The Rodger Dodger is one of the most iconic Hot Wheels models ever created, earning its place on this list. Part of the Flying Colors series from 1974 to 1979, it was exclusively manufactured in Hong Kong, giving its windows a distinctive blue tint. This model stands out for its blown V8 engine design, flame tampos (decorative painted details), and classic Redline wheels.

While most used Rodger Dodgers sell for modest prices on eBay today, mint-condition, blister-packaged versions can fetch thousands. In February 2022 and May 2021, two blue 1974 models with iconic tampos sold for $2,999 and $2,608, respectively. A rare plum-colored version with a white interior brought in nearly $8,000 in May 2017. The standout sale was an enamel blue Rodger Dodger, which sold for just over $8,000 in 2021.