When you think about car manufacturers, a few names jump to mind, whether it is a brand that produces your dream car or the one in your driveway. Not too often do you think of one of the "biggest carmakers" in the world, Hot Wheels. Considering the price and variety offered every year, they might even have made a scale example of your dream car or the one in your driveway. But Hot Wheels does more than make cars; they inspire dreams.
Related: Making childhood Matchbox dreams a reality
If you have a Hot Wheel of your dream car, search for new or used models on AutoTrader of the real car here. You can also sell your car quickly and easily on the website here.
Hot Wheels History
Hot Wheels has been around since 1968 when it launched its first line with iconic models such as a Custom Camaro, Custom Corvette Stingray, and Custom 1968 Mustang. For over 50 years, the brand has been producing models, and it is estimated that over 6 billion Hot Wheels have been made since the company's inception.
That is why it is no surprise that if you mention the brand to young and old, they know exactly what you are talking about and will probably have a fond story about a specific car they owned or saw in the metal. But more importantly, the Hot Wheels brand has inspired a love for cars and racing in young boys and girls.
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Hot Wheels Legendary Local Racers
More than just inspiring, Hot Wheels aims to uplift individuals who are legendary in their own right. To achieve this, Hot Wheels has partnered with two inspiring women in racing, Paige Lindenberg and Stacey-lee May.
Stacey-lee May
Stacey-lee is a South African racing driver and drag racer and is a top contender in drifting and spinning. A trailblazer and inspiration in her community and the greater motorsport fraternity, Stacey-lee May continues to demonstrate resilience and excellence in her craft.
What drives me to be legendary is the community I come from. I'm from Eldorado Park, known for drugs and gangsterism. My goal is to show the world that greatness lies within you, not around you. By God’s grace, we stand out. Being legendary means doing what most are afraid of, taking risks, and believing in yourself. It means going the extra mile to be remembered as someone who never allowed excuses or failures to define their future.To be a modern-day legend in racing means going out there and being great no matter what happens. Whether you win or lose the race, the most important thing is that you keep your head up and do your best. Great racers are made; it takes time to become great. No matter how many times you get knocked down, you always stand up with your head high and try again. - Stacey-lee May
Paige Lindenberg
Another legendary lady in motorsport is, of course, Paige Lindenberg. A member of Lindenberg Racing and Shelby South Africa, Paige inspires women across the country and squarely falls within Hot Wheels' definition of legendary: inspiring others, breaking boundaries, leaving a lasting impact, demonstrating resilience, and exemplifying excellence.
My motto in life has always been - Nothing is impossible. I believe in taking opportunities, believing in yourself, and doing what it takes to reach your goals. Often, I find myself outside my comfort zone, but I push through those uneasy moments to strive for what I want to achieve. It's not always easy, but I have a strong head and determination. Inspiring others drives me daily. I try to be as approachable and available as possible when people have questions or want a few minutes of your time. I love inspiring and helping others, and it's so rewarding to have seen the impact I have made on others over the years. I so wish I had the means to help every person I interact with get their dreams off the ground, but I do what I can to advise and show support and encouragement in any way I can. - Paige Lindenberg
How legends are made
When it comes to cars, some sadly fade away in the shadows, and others remain legends up until today. How they became legends varies, as some cars completely changed the industry while others achieved success on the track. Some cars might inspire people to set goals to own one.
Ultimately, legendary cars have left a lasting impact on the industry, such as the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, which many consider the very first supercar. Celebrating these legends, Hot Wheels is introducing a new range locally with legendary cars, whether because of their achievements on the track or just as an icon in the car community. Check out the picture gallery above for some of these new sets you can expect soon.
