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| Find the Time Attaxi at Wheel Collectors... |
There seems to be at least one or two Hot Wheels fantasy models that really grab collector's attention.
The recently-released Galactic Express Detokora Truck is one, but that isn't a basic model. However, the model it comes with, the Mad Manga, is a basic, and most definitely has gotten a great deal of attention. I will admit to a sliver of satisfaction when it comes to the Mad Manga. I called it my Model of the Year back in 2012, to what you might call a mixed reaction, but I stick by it. Jun's gem of a model was a door-opener for so many collectors to an element of the car world that seems a lot more familiar now.
Sure, many of the fantasy models have dragon and shark heads or look like dogs, and while they don't interest you or me, they definitely have their purpose. But there are others that just spark conversation. The Mad Manga is one, the Time Attaxi is another.
And frankly, I am not here to explain what it is. I have no idea. It is clearly based on Hong Kong Taxis, but whether or not its custom looks are based on an actual car or just the imagination of the designer, I have no idea. Maybe one day we will find out, but for now I will just enjoy it.
What the model is based on is intriguing enough, but what has collectors talking is this strange plastic door. Does it open? Why is it there? And why on only one side?
I can't answer the last two questions, but I can answer the first. I posted this on Instagram yesterday:
I opens, and it clicks shut. Sure, it isn't the moving parts we are used to on older Hot Wheels and Matchbox models, nor is it really an option for models moving forward, but it works here.
Hot Wheels has been playing with some interesting ideas this year, from the flip-chin to make models track-compatible but still retain good looks, to the headlights/window/tail light pieces we have seen on the '05 Mustang and BMW CSL. Consider this plastic door another, although on a much more limited scope. We surely won't see licensed models with opening plastic doors. That would be disastrous. But here on the Time Attaxi, it's cool.
Just look at the design. Nothing is perfectly symmetrical. Windows lean one way, so does the exposed engine. Pieces look be bolted on or taken off in a rush. It is half Mad Max and half demolition derby. I could see the doors bolted shut with the exception of the one door that passengers would use to enter and eject from the ride of their lives. The model is nuts. The door ads to it.
So yes, I expect the plastic door will piss off a few of you. The days of opening parts are over for the basic range. Budgets are what they are, and massive retailers like Walmart will always dictate that. But Mattel is getting creative with that they do. Opening parts aren't coming back, nor do they need to, but this little innovation works on this. I'm a fan.
(Find the Time Attaxi at Wheel Collectors...
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