Hey gang, I hope 2004 is treating everyone well! This segment is going to (hopefully) be a resource as to the number of Lotus models that are out there ... and more importantly, in production, or accessible through other internet sources. Granted with my budget, I will not be able to cover the more expensive releases, but my aim is for this to be a kind of checklist for the collector. Let's get started!
Hot Wheels has released quite a few lotus die cast in the past few years, sadly, even the "older" models (M250, 340R) are getting harder and harder to find. My advice is to pick them up when you have a chance..or suffer the ebay consequences!
2004 has already been a great year for the Lotus die cast, as Hot Wheels has released the following: 2004 First Editions Lotus Sport Elise 36/100 (this particular model has two variations, with the 5 spoke wheels being the rarer of the two), 2004 First Editions "Blings" Lotus Esprit 11/100 (again this particular model has three variations, the most rare being the silver one), and finally the Sega Series Lotus Esprit 3/5.
If you are lucky enough to still find the "Pavement Pounder" series by Hot Wheels (these contain a car, along with a semi hauler) at your local Wal Mart, etc., be sure to check for the M250 in the unique paint scheme of yellow and green (item # 47183). In addition there is also an Esprit in black with red interior (item #47184). Good Luck, and Happy Hunting! Matt
