Bug Appraisal

Hot Wheels Baja Bug - Collector #835 (Sealed in Blister Pack)

The item is a Hot Wheels 'Baja Bug' die-cast toy vehicle, still sealed in its original blister packaging. The packaging consists of a blue cardboard backing card and a clear plastic blister that encases the vehicle. The overall dimensions appear to be standard for a Hot Wheels single-car package, approximately 6.5 inches in height and 4.25 inches in width. The cardboard backing card features the prominent 'Hot Wheels' logo with flames, the 'Mattel' logo in a red circle, and a graphic of a blue sports car in the upper section. Text on the card indicates 'GUARANTEED FOR LIFE' and 'FOR AGES OVER 3 YEARS DIE CAST METAL & PLASTIC PARTS'. Below the car graphic, the model name 'BAJA BUG' is displayed in white letters on a blue stripe. To the right of the model name, 'COLLECTOR #835' is printed, indicating its specific number in the Hot Wheels collecting series. The toy car itself is a 'Baja Bug' model, characterized by its modified Volkswagen Beetle-like body designed for off-road racing. The vehicle is predominantly blue with stylized orange and red flame-like graphics on its sides, which also incorporate the 'Hot Wheels' logo. It features large, rugged-looking black wheels with silver-colored hubs, appropriate for an off-road vehicle. A roll cage or spoiler-like structure is visible at the rear of the car. The construction is die-cast metal for the body and plastic for other components like the chassis and wheels. The item appears to be in excellent, unopened condition, with no visible damage, dents, or creases to the cardboard card or the plastic blister. The colors are vibrant and unfaded. Based on the 'Collector #835' and the general design of the packaging, this item likely dates from the mid-to-late 1990s, a period known for its diverse range of Hot Wheels releases. The craftsmanship is typical of Hot Wheels, offering a detailed miniature representation of a custom vehicle.