1973 Redlines: The Shift from Spectraflame to House Paint

1973 was a turning point year for Hot Wheels Redlines and a fun one to collect. It marked the end of the Spectraflame era and the start of enamel paints, often called “house paints.” Only three brand-new castings were introduced, but many earlier favorites were reworked and renamed to round out the lineup. These opaque enamel colors covered the metal completely, which meant less polishing at the factory and, today, a lot more chips for collectors to watch out for. Because toy production was down industry-wide, 1973 runs were smaller, making these cars tougher to find, especially in clean condition.

This year also introduced the third Redline wheel design, the “Through Hole” wheel. To make it work, car bases were re-engineered with crush protectors and anti-rub nibs to protect the wheels. Most cars started with through-hole wheels up front while keeping capped wheels in the rear, with later production moving to all four through-hole wheels.

Packaging changed too, with the iconic flame blister giving way to a rectangular card. Late in the year, Shell Oil added even more excitement with a gas-station-only promotion featuring ten castings in multiple colors, sold in baggies with Shell header cards. Some leftover promos and even a few Spectraflame cars have been found on 1973 cards, adding to the mystery and charm of this transitional year.

If you or anyone you know owns any of these vintage treasures, feel free to send a message! 

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The added photo shows the contrast between Spectraflame paint used through 1972 and the enamel “house paint” colors that debuted in 1973, marking the end of an era for Redlines.