The Lamley Awards voting continues with the vote for 2015 Hot Wheels Model of the Year.
What do we mean by Model of the Year? Well, to be honest, it is the most subjective of any of the Lamley Awards categories. It could mean Best, it could mean Most Popular, it could mean Most Hype, Most Buzz, Best Looking, whatever. Maybe you could call the Model of the Year “The Most Significant”.
This is also the only category where we at Lamley pick nominees. With the help of some “in-the-know” collectors, we selected the 15 models that seemed to generate the most discussion. It doesn’t necessarily mean we liked them, but many collectors out there did.
You would be surprised at the amount of discussion we had trying to pick these. We tried not to be biased (that is impossible), and tried to stay relevant. Supers and New Models will always dominate the list, because they are always the most talked-about models. Hopefully you think this is a good, encompassing list. Maybe your personal fave isn’t there, but these hopefully cover a lot of the hobby.
Whatever you do, please vote, and tell your friends to do the same. I think this is the most fun poll of all. The poll is below, followed by photos and a short explanation of why each model was nominated.
What is the 2015 Hot Wheels Model of the Year?
The nominees, in no particular order, plus why they were nominated:
Mainline Volkswagen Caddy – A unique choice of model designed by outgoing Mattel Wheels VP Felix Holst. Touches like the skateboard in the back were a hit with collectors.
’77 Dodge Custom Van Super TH – A casting that might not be on a lot of favorite lists. But when a Super looks this good in Mooneyes livery, along with the appropriate Mooneyes disc wheels and a bonus set of eyes on the back, you have one of the best executed Supers ever.
Mainline ’70 Ford Escort RS1600 (Fast & Furious) – Even without the F&F link, this unique selection would have grabbed collector’s attention. Plus, it looks really good. A great classic choice.
Road Trippin’ Nissan Skyline H/T 2000GT-X – Another model that wouldn’t last an hour on the pegs. Deco isn’t subtle, but that didn’t stop the masses from searching high and low for this one.
HW Heritage Real Riders Ford Transit Supervan – A model that caught everyone by surprise. A replica of a car a little off the beaten path, but with a rich history. An instant education, especially for young or US-based collectors. And executed flawlessly, front-lifted stance and all.
Mainline Cadillac Elmiraj – A few year from now it might be forgotten, but this year was one of the best examples of how good Hot Wheels can be.
DMC Delorean Super TH – Not the best-looking Super, but significant because it pays homage to a classic, the early 80’s Turismo. Same deco, updated model. A clever choice.
Mainline BMW M4 – Like the Elmiraj, this model is here because of execution. A great replica in two great colors.
Ferrari 599XX Super TH – The final Ferrari.
RLC/HWC ’55 Chevy Bel Air “Candy Striper” Gasser – The most heavily debated model of the 15 nominees, only because of its limited release. Collectors knew about this one over a year before its eventual release, and the treacherous wait finally ended last month. Already a popular casting, and now in a color and livery that can seriously never be topped. Limited release, but WAY too nice to be ignored.
Mainline ’90 Acura NSX – I have gotten a lot of grief for not being a huge fan of this model, but that doesn’t matter. From the day the news broke that it was coming, it has been a fan favorite. A no brainer for the list.
Mainline Nissan 180SX Type X – Easily the most buzzed-about model of 2015. A unique, relevant casting choice, done perfectly, with thoughtful choices like the sleep eye headlights.
’69 Ford Mustang Boss 302 Super TH – To many collectors, the cleanest and best-looking Super of 2015.
Retro Entertainment Thunder Roller – A massive casting that never stayed on the pegs. Collectors were clamoring for this one the day the Retro Entertainment series was announced. It did not disappoint.
Toyota Off-Road Super TH – Like the Dodge Van, a Super with realistic, appropriate graphics. Seeing this model with Toyota Racing colors is a total treat. A model that went from ho-hum to buzz worthy as more collectors found it.
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