When the Gran Turismo series was first announced, two cars stood out from the pack of 8 for me — the Jaguar XJ220 and the Nissan Skyline R32. See, both cars had not been released for 5 years and were considered to be “endangered” as far as Hot Wheels castings are concerned. Its kind of an arbitrary measure but often can lessen the chance a casting may be seen again. Fortunately for me, these two personal favorites resurfaced and received great graphics treatment as part of the #Gran Turismo Series.

Hot Wheels Nissan Skyline R32 from the 2016 Gran Turismo Series (rear)
The #Nissan Skyline R32 was one of the first #Tuners/#JDM cars Hot Wheels produced. Originally released as a 2002 First Edition, the R32 Skyline has always come with a plastic spoiler, however, that looks like it may change for 2017. Other notables from the Alec Tam designed Skyline is the wide-body kit it wears and the headlight that features an air intake.
On this new Gran Turismo version, the bright red with matte black hood makes this release stand out. It wears the #32 on its sides and hood due to the fact that this is the R32 Skyline. Demand for these were high when the series first was announced, fortunately, that demand was pacified as these were one of the four cars to come two per case (of 12). Also, since these were only available through hobby dealers in the U.S., most collectors ordered these by the case, dispersing their doubles. Still, a fabulous release that should not be overlooked … especially now, when you can still get these for a couple bucks.

RELEASE DETAILS: Red Body (metal). Clear Windows. Black Interior. White-Rim, Black PR5 Wheels. Black Base (plastic). Made in Thailand. Toy# DJL13. Released in 2016 as #1 of 8 in the Gran Turismo series.
Categories: Showcase