Mattel Hot Wheels 1968 Red Custom Eldorado

Description

Mattel Hot Wheels 1968 Red Custom Eldorado.
The Custom Eldorado is based on the 1967 Cadillac Eldorado Coupe de Ville. This model was built in both the U.S. and the Hong Kong  plants for 2 years. Although all Eldorados were issued with a black roof there are some other distinctive differences in the castings which are described below. The hood of the U.S. Eldorado is slightly shorter than that of the Hong Kong model even though the hood scoops are the same on both. The longer Hong Kong hood in order to accommodate larger engine compartment. The area between the Hong Kong engine radiator and front bumper is open, while the U.S. version is a solid cast.
The U.. Eldorado has a clear windshield as compared to the blue-tinted "glass" of the Hong Kong model.  The windshield placement is different as well; the U.S. windshield snaps into the rear of the interior, and rests over the top of the dashboard, while the Hong Kong version rest above the front dashboard at the engine cowl and the rear portion extends back to insert the rear rivet post. The U.S. model has a one piece interior, with the steering wheel molded as part of the console.
The Hong Kong main difference is the lack of rounded dashboard detail. The black steering wheel is a separate mold which is inserted through the dashboard. The interiors from both factories have been found in the following colors, white, gray, brown, and champagne.
The information about this little jewel was found in 'The Elite Redline Guide" by Jack Clark & Sid Belzberg.
(
I apologize for the photos. I couldn't get the glare from the light fixture to stop reflecting. The yellow appearance is the light fixture reflection not discolored paint. I also have a hard time getting very clear photos at close view. They appear clear then get blurry when getting close. I don't know why.)
This little guy has the opening hood which holds up in the open position, The base has some toning but is still shiny. There are tiny paint chips along the pointy edges around the car, this must have been a favorite car to play with. The tires have some minor chips, another indication of being a favorite car.
It is one of my late husbands extensive collection and I'm looking for a new home for it.