We know the news of the Alfa Romeo 8C already broke awhile ago, but more photos are now appearing out there is social media-land, and we like what we see.
These small photos aren't the highest quality, but they do show front and rear detailing that looks pretty sharp. And while this one unfortunately is plagued with the large-rear-wheel virus, the casting still captures the gorgeous compact lines of the 8c.
Mattel seems to be re-establishing some great relationships license-wise lately. Who knows if it was a "you, not me" situation, but it is great to see the two sides making up. First BMW, now Alfa. Could Mercedes-Benz be somewhere down the line? (I'm not holding my breath.)
Anyway, a true Italian beauty is making its triumphant return, both as the Hot Wheels 8C you see here, and later in the year with Matchbox as the 4C. And little birdies are saying we should prepare to see the return of the beautiful Matchbox '65 Guilia Sprint GTA in a color other than red or white.
For now, let's enjoy the newest Hot Wheels models to enter the fold:
Now, with the Alfa sure to hit our stores soon, look how 2014 is starting for licensed New Models not called Jetson:
- Datsun 620
- COPO Camaro
- Aston Martin DB5
- Porsche Panamera
- Alfa 8C
- Lambo Sesto Elemento
- Honda Civic EF
- Mastretta MXR
Take a look at that list, and you see something unheard of with Hot Wheels:
- Italian cars - 2
- Japanese cars - 2
- British cars - 1
- German cars - 1
- Mexican cars - 1
- American cars - 1
Yes, there are as many American New Models as Mexican! One (ONE!) muscle car in the mix so far. Will that change? Of course it will. Hot Wheels isn't Hot Wheels without a multitude of Mustangs and Camaros int the lineup, and we don't mind at all. But it is nice to see 2014 launching with such an international feel.
I have maintained that one of my biggest joys about running the Lamley Group is getting to meet so many collectors from around the world. I have a much better sense of what many of you from both hemispheres like and don't like, and I have learned that the US-centric audience of the HWC may not be as relevant as they think they are. (Plus, only reading about how angry Pat from Des Moines is that he didn't get his RLC Blown Delivery gets a little old, while any posts linking to Lamley's model showcases gets deleted. Am I bitter about it? Maybe.) Mattel is very aware of its international audience, and it is really starting to show. But they can do more. The beginning of 2014 is a nice start...
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