Stock# 18679
Collector# 651

CB's Die Cast Review: April 17, 1998

1998 First Editions #21 
Go Kart

With the multitude of First Editions this year, there are bound to be a few unique models that probably would not be made during a normal year.  The Go Kart could fall into this category -- it is surely one of the smallest Hot Wheels ever made, measuring 1¼ inches long by ¾ inches wide!

This Malaysian-made item is all-metal except for the black plastic seat and wheels.  This is a good thing since this diminutive racer needs as much weight as possible.  The metal one-piece body is painted in fluorescent lime green enamel.  The motor and interior details are a zinc-plated metal casting, which also holds the axles in place.  The car rides on micro wheels up front, and small five-spoke wheels in back, giving it an extremely low-to-the-ground profile.  Black, red and white tampos adorn the side of the model.

The Go Kart looks great, but I don't know how well it will operate on the track.  The micro wheels have never rolled well on past models, and with the relative lightness of this model along with the slippery plastic in the wheels, the Go Kart runs across the floor as if imaginary front brakes are slightly applied.  This might not be a problem on track, where the track sides will prevent the back end from spinning out.

This is a nifty little car, and I'm glad that Mattel decided to celebrate its 30th anniversary of Hot Wheels with forty new models.  This way, we get to see some of the neat oddities that normally would not be released.