Toy OTD: Mattel 1/24 Speed Racer Die-Cast: The Mach 6 (2008)

Despite the arguable quality of the Speed Racer movie (I enjoyed it even though it was talky and about twenty minutes too long), Mattel produced an impressive line of merchandising, both in breadth and quality. Racing helmets and tracks, action figures, Lego sets, and naturally a plethora of Mach Fives and Sixes hit stores concurrent with the film's release.

The Mach 6, like many movie toys, is based on a custom design for the film - the 'upgraded' version of Speed's car built for the climactic race. While I prefer the Mach 5 - it's hard to beat those classic lines! - I do like the Mach 6 design. It evokes the original car, but clearly reads as an updated, higher-tech version.

This mid-sized die-cast of the Mach 6 is nicely made. The level of detail is good, the use of materials is appropriate, and it's accurate compared to the digital (and practical) mock-ups in the film. The decal work and paint apps are crisp and smooth.

As far as functionality goes, it's free-rolling, but I can't remember if the steering wheel works. The 'shock absorbers' are fixed in place, but there is a lift-able cockpit cover under the windshield. There's no other action features with this model - any other gimmicks were installed in the larger, plastic Mach Sixes.

Personally, I would have liked to have a removable Speed for the driver's seat, but die-cast collectors tend to focus on the cars (and display value) rather than passengers and play functions. From this perspective, this Mach 6 offers a decent amount of spiffy for the money.

The packaging, while not offering nearly the amount of visual dazzle the film might suggest, does have some positive points. The toy is tilted up and toward the viewer to not only lend a sense of motion, but also to give shoppers a better angle to appreciate the detail. The graphics also support the feeling of movement, and also offer artwork based on scenes from the film. It might not jump off the shelf in the way that it might have, but it's simple and clear. Some die-casts include a display case right inside the box, and that would have been a great addition (especially for its original $30 price point).

Since the film underperformed in theaters, availability and pricing for this toy are still excellent. You can get a brand new one right now for $14.80 + shipping at Amazon.com. Happy shopping!