1:64 scale models

Introducing Shell Shock, a Hot Wheels model that distils the profound spirit of the 19th-century American pioneer into its form. Created in 2007 by the imaginative pencil of Joshua D. Henson — a prolific designer active in the toy and film industries — the model stands out for its bold and detailed design.

The chassis of this version (2011 HW Video Game Heroes) is made of black-painted metal, while the bodywork consists of a green plastic element that defines the cockpit and bonnet. The bonnet is attached to a chrome-plated plastic part which, on the sides, forms two gun barrels with muzzles in place of the headlights, then continues towards the rear of the model in the shape of a drum with a profile that reaches close to the wheel, ending at the sides of the rear.

Lo stesso pezzo definisce anche l’interno dell’abitacolo, contornato da vetrate in plastica semitrasparente fumé. La parte verde presenta una serigrafia a due colori (argento e nero), che disegna un ornamento articolato di fiamme dalla forma tipica usata per decorare le muscle car americane.

The same piece also defines the interior of the passenger compartment, surrounded by semi-transparent smoked plastic windows. The green part features a two-colour (silver and black) screen print, which depicts an intricate flame pattern typically used to decorate American muscle cars.

Finally, the wheels are five-spoke Open Hole wheels with chrome screen printing.

This Hot Wheels model is a skilful reproduction of the Volkswagen Type 181, produced from 1969 to 1983. It is a torpedo car known by various names in different markets (Thing, Safari, Pescaccia, etc.). Initially designed for NATO military use, it was later reintroduced for the civilian market, especially in Mexico, thanks to its robustness. Derived from the Beetle and Type 3, it was suitable for rough roads but not very comfortable on asphalt due to its noise and low speed. In Italy, it was called the Pescaccia, but it was not very successful due to its high price and fuel consumption.

The version shown in the photo is from 2009 (New Models) and features a metallic blue body topped with a black plastic hood that simulates the characteristic “cabriolet” configuration. The lower body is made of chrome-plated plastic and extends to the rear, also defining the engine block and the two opposing exhaust pipes. The interior of the passenger compartment is made of grey plastic, with a transparent plastic windscreen. The wheels are SP5 type (solid 5-spoke) with chrome screen printing outlining the rims. The screen-printed parts on the bodywork include: the headlights and the VW logo in white; the front directional lights in silver and orange; the rear lights in orange, red and silver.