Hot Wheels Boulevard and Car Culture: The Ultimate Collectibles
Hot Wheels has always been a favorite among car enthusiasts, and the Boulevard and Car Culture series take it to a whole new level. These premium collectibles feature Real Riders wheels and metal bodies, making them highly sought after by collectors. In fact, Chevrolet has dominated the Boulevard series, with 11 representatives, accounting for about 12% of the entire line-up.
Excitingly, this year, we can expect to see an additional 25 vehicles joining the series. It will be interesting to analyze how the standings have changed by the end of the year. But for now, let’s focus on the 2023 collection. It hit stores in five stages, each with its own mix of cars. Many enthusiasts agree that the fourth set was the standout, featuring highly desirable machines like the Porsche 911 Turbo (930) and the Nissan Silvia S15. However, the first and third mixes were also contenders for second place.
The 2023 Boulevard series introduced four vehicles that reached Premium status for the first time. Notable mentions include the ’20 Ford Shelby GT500 and the ’99 Honda Civic Type R (EK9). Additionally, five brand-new castings were unveiled, including the ’96 Honda Accord and the ’04 Mazda Mazdaspeed Miata. Choosing the most successful cars in the series ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Among the fan favorites are the LB-ER34 Super Silhouette Nissan Skyline and the Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16. Last month, Mattel revealed two exciting Red Line Club exclusive sets. One showcased the entire 2023 Super Treasure Hunt series, while the other was a larger set with over 400 items. Now, collectors are eagerly awaiting the Walmart-exclusive Boulevard set, which includes all 25 vehicles from last year packaged in one box. This is perfect for those who missed out on certain cars or simply enjoy collecting every Hot Wheels item available.
In the past, Walmart sold the 2022 edition of this set for $172.99. While we can’t confirm the price for the 2023 set yet, it’s unlikely to exceed $200. Some may be disappointed that the vehicles are no longer carded, but I believe this new display format is the best. It allows collectors to see all their cars in one place, creating a miniature display case effect without the additional cost.
However, a word of caution: collecting Hot Wheels can become an addictive hobby. If you’re not prepared to spend hundreds of dollars on older Boulevard sets, it’s best to avoid browsing eBay. Stay focused on the joy of collecting and enjoy the thrill of adding new Hot Wheels to your collection without breaking the bank.
