In 1968, American toymaker Mattel released a series of 1:64 scale die cast cars called Hot Wheels. The first series of cars released (16 in total) were ‘customized’ versions of well known models like the the Camaro, Corvette and Mustang. However, later that year, Hot Wheels designer Ira Gilford began concept work on what would eventually become the iconic ‘Twin Mill’, which made it’s debut in 1969.
The design was unmistakable. Massive dual engines with giant scoops up front, and big, wide exposed wheels in the rear. To date, some 12 million have been produced. To avid Hot Wheels collectors, a mint, in-the-package original Twin Mill could go for as much as $800.
Right side view of life-sized Hot Wheels Twin Mill. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/1bkSwSq)
Besides Ira Gilford, Twin Mill other designer was Bruce Baur who known as the designer of the Twin Mill II in 1993 and Josh Henson as designer of Twin Mill III in 2008. The color of red and green are the theme of the "Then and Now" Twin Mill 2014 series in accordance with the real version car color.
Rear side view of Life-sized Hot Wheels Twin Mill. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/1aJRyOC)
Generally die cast based on real model cars. But for this unique Twin Mill cars is just the opposite. A life-size Twin Mill car made by the famous 1:64 scale die cast cars, and initially only enlarged to a 1:24 scale.
Fast forward to 1998, the 30th anniversary of the famous toy series, and an executive at Mattel decides it would be fantastic to reproduce a life-size replica of a Hot Wheels car. The project was entrusted to Boyd Coddington (Hot Rods by Boyd) with Chip Foose in charge of the build. Unfortunately, Hot Rods by Boyd went bankrupt later that year. However, the unfinished Twin Mill project was not ‘present’ when the collectors came to cart everything away.
The project remained unfinished until Hot Wheels Director Carson Lev revived the Twin Mill and contracted Barry Lobeck to finish the job. The completed car made its debut at the 2001 SEMA show in Las Vegas to great adulation.
Twin Mill's car could actually be used, with front and rear lights, signals, and even the twin 502 big blocks providing an estimated 1,400 total horsepower. This car can be driven up to speeds of 270 kph. Ergonomic design of this car is not too comfortable, because the driver's view obstructed by its two big engines in front of him, but in aesthetics has a very beautiful design. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TWISTED SIFTER]
