Veteran V8 Supercar driver Craig Lowndes showed at last weekend’s Bathurst 1000 that he’s still got the skill and pace to mix it with the kids around Australia’s most challenging race track.
Even when he’s away from the track the champion driver can’t keep from playing around with cars, with his latest passion being a Mercedes-Benz 300 SL built using a kit from Mattel Brick Shop.
Mattel recently launched its first-ever product collection under its new Mattel Brick Shop brand in collaboration with Hot Wheels, and Lowndes was one of the first to get his hands on the new collectibles.
The global toy and entertainment company is riding the wave of popularity of collectible construction and nostalgic play surging across Australia offering fans including the seven-time Bathurst 1000 winner, a new way to build, customise and collect.
“Growing up, I was obsessed with Hot Wheels, so being able to build and customise my own Mercedes-Benz 300 SL with Mattel Brick Shop was a full-circle moment,” says Lowndes.
While Lowndes and the other big kids among us will be attracted to the Hot Wheels Premium Series ($219.99) which is “dedicated to maximum authenticity and show-stopping, display-worthy details”, there are other more affordable options available to help fuel the passion of genuine little ‘uns.
This includes the Hot Wheels Speed Series ($31.99) and Hot Wheels Elite Series ($79.99) with various build options including a Custom ’62 Chevy Pickup, Custom ’68 Camaro muscle car, Cadillac Project GTP Hypercar, and Maserati MC20 Super Sports Car.
All models include diecast parts, opening doors, polished hubcaps, and authentic detailing, including a luxe interior, with the level of detail growing as you move up the range.
The Speed Series is a 1:32 scale entry-level build suited for ages 10-plus and includes a collection of iconic Hot Wheels cars designed for customisation. Each set allows fans to enhance their builds with additional wheel covers and licensed decals, while also including a matching 1:64 metal car for display and collection.
The Elite Series is a 1:16 scale mid-tier model also suited for ages 10-plus and includes a different collection of iconic cars that builders can customise with extra parts, metal wheel covers, and licensed decals. All sets include a matching 1:64 metal car to collect and display.
Finally, there’s the flagship 1:12 scale Premium Series which includes Lowndes’ iconic 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, along with other notable machines including the 1963 Corvette Grand Sport and the 1990 Honda NSX.
The Premium Series is built with metal parts, including extra metal wheel covers and licensed decals for customization, plus a matching 1:64 metal car to collect and display.
“This range isn’t just about putting bricks together – it’s about celebrating the cars we love, adding your own flair, and enjoying the craftsmanship that brings them to life,” says Lowndes.
With each set featuring authentic, display-worthy designs inspired by both real-life cars and Hot Wheels originals, fans can build, customise and showcase high-performance racers and iconic classics, making this an exciting and creative experience for casual hobbyists and serious collectors alike.
A statement from Mattel said the launch marks the beginning of a new way to experience Hot Wheels, blending the fun of building with the thrill of collecting and racing.
The initiative isn’t just a shot in the dark either, with new research commissioned by Mattel revealing that Australian adults are increasingly turning to nostalgic, screen-free ways to relax and reconnect. Among the findings:
- 79% of adults buy toys for themselves – not just their kids
- 62% of Australians actively collect toys
- 82% consider collectability a key factor in purchasing
- 24% spend over $500 annually on toys and collectibles
- 82% of households enjoy adult-friendly play
