Some sets just hit that sweet spot. It appears Gran Turismo has done just that.
The buzz began when the 8-car set started appearing at Asda stores in the UK. And as our friends over there are enjoying their finds on IG and elsewhere, appetites for the models elsewhere just get stronger and stronger.
And it is easy to see why collectors are going nuts for it. Supercars have always been a big deal, but they have become far more popular among the diecast collector set lately. Just look at how hot models like the Bugatti Veyron and the old Speed Machines line have become. Those models hung on the pegs when they were released, yet now they command big bucks on eBay.
There is of course the Gran Turismo angle as well. I have mentioned enough that I am not a gamer, and haven't played the game, but it is pretty clear that there are a gazillion fans of realistic racing games like GT and Forza, and it isn't because they get the thrill of driving an '03 Camry. It's about the cars.
It has been awesome to see Hot Wheels embrace so many elements of car culture of late, partnering with these games, movies like Fast & Furious, and car enthusiasts like Magnus Walker. Sure, not every 4-year-old who gets carted by the diecast aisle know these entries, but ultimately these partnerships produce cool cars that everyone can enjoy.
So how to get these models? My assumption was that this would be one of those Walmart exclusive sets like the BMW or Porsche sets, but that is not the case. Other stores will be carrying it, but I don't know exactly which ones. Kroger, for example, has carried sets like these before, and is currently carrying the badly pegwarming soccer set. Maybe GT is next for them. Honestly I have no idea, but I do know they will be released in the US and will be available.
I also know hobby dealers were able to order them as well.
A&J Toys has the cases available for preorder, and my friends at Wheel Collectors told me they ordered some as well. So stay tuned.
So they should be easy to get, and I think most of you will be happy when you do come across them. There isn't a weak model in the bunch, but the standout for me is the Ford GT LM in its signature GT livery. Right behind that is the Aston Martin One-77. A model I haven't been terribly fond of in the past, but that shines here. Your faves?
