Hot Wheels Not Wheels MSCHF: A Unique Take on Everyday Beaters
Hot Wheels is a brand that never needs an introduction, as these little toy cars have inspired all of us since childhood to love cars and even dream of building our own dream cars. Often, however, chasing that last dream leads to a project car that sits around, not really moving forward for what feels like forever. Consequently, we may give up and either sell it or let it become a permanent lawn decoration. Interestingly, someone at Mattel—Hot Wheels’ parent company—and MSCHF, an art and media company, were inspired by those failed and lingering projects. This inspiration led to a Mattel Creations special edition called “Not Wheels.”
The toy car itself is based on a loose idea of an old-school Japanese car, hinting at classic models like the Honda Civic EF or Accord CA5 sedans. However, it’s really an amalgamation of many different cars. What truly makes the Not Wheels so special is the fact it’s not a shiny, pristine vehicle. The wheels don’t match, showcasing a yellow space-saver spare in the left front, no right rear wheel at all, and several signs of wear and tear. There’s rust where primer hasn’t been applied, a cracked windshield, a botched front fender repair, and dirt covering the car—complete with “Wash Me” traced out on the rear window. Moreover, it has dents and a bent hood. Remarkably, the rear bumper is held in place with zip ties.
For many enthusiasts who have been part of the Tuner scene, this design will evoke memories of project cars sitting in driveways, as we continued to reassure ourselves, “It will get done and it will look amazing.” However, most times, these projects never truly get finished and settle into a state of neglect. Not Wheels may not be aesthetically pleasing; nevertheless, it possesses a unique beauty that serves as a reminder of those early, naive days of pursuing our first or last project car or ambitious daily driver. Most importantly, it’s a car rich in character that speaks volumes without the need for a wild, eye-catching paint job or an engine protruding from the hood.
If you desire such a unique and one-of-a-kind Hot Wheels, you can acquire yours on the Mattel Creations website for $30, though you’ll be limited to purchasing only three. To complete the look, don’t forget to find a spare Hot Wheels-sized cinder block to prop up the side with the missing wheel.
