FYI: Dennis Collins’ latest garage addition brings the iconic Twin Mill Hot Wheels car to life.
Dennis Collins, the renowned car collector, is back with a new conquest that’s making waves in the automotive community. This time, he’s managed to add a life-sized Twin Mill Hot Wheels car to his already impressive collection. Designed by Ira Gilford and introduced to the world in the late 1960s, the Twin Mill remains one of the most beloved Hot Wheels models of all time. Now, this dream car is not only a tangible reality but is also drivable, much to the delight of car enthusiasts everywhere.
The Twin Mill Hot Wheels
Originally part of the initial set of 16 Hot Wheels cars released in 1969, the Twin Mill was the brainchild of Ira Gilford, a former designer for Chrysler. Among Hot Wheels aficionados, this particular model is a grail item, especially those with the original Spectraflame paint job. Its significance in the die-cast world has now been amplified with a full-scale, operable version.
Dennis Collins’ latest video showcases his meeting with Richard Rawlings and Tommy Defranzo, the mastermind behind the life-sized Twin Mill Hot Wheels car. Both Dennis and Richard have a history of owning and creating runnable Hot Wheels cars, but the Twin Mill was the one Dennis had his sights set on.
A Purchase Full of Excitement
In true Dennis Collins fashion, the path to acquiring the Twin Mill was filled with humor and high energy. Negotiations for the unique car were spirited, with jokes flying and a hefty price tag north of $100,000 being casually tossed around. Transporting the car presented its own set of challenges, but Dennis was undeterred. He was determined to make this one-of-a-kind vehicle part of his collection, adding even more prestige to his already remarkable lineup of rare and classic cars.
The Mechanics Behind the Masterpiece
The Twin Mill has deep roots in automotive history, its design heavily influenced by the Corvette. Upon its full-scale debut in 2001, this extraordinary car captivated audiences. Equipped with two 502 cubic inch engines, each fitted with superchargers, the full-size Twin Mill is a beast on wheels. These engines collectively churn out an estimated 1,400 horsepower, ensuring that this car is not just a display piece but a powerful machine ready for action.
Quick Guide to the Twin Mill Hot Wheels
- Introduced: 1969
- Designer: Ira Gilford, former Chrysler automotive designer
- Original Models: Highly prized among collectors, especially those with Spectraflame paint
- Full-Scale Version: Introduced in 2001
- Engine: Twin 502 cubic inch Chevrolet V8 engines
- Performance: Combined horsepower estimated at 1,400
Conclusion
Dennis Collins’ acquisition of the life-sized Twin Mill Hot Wheels car is a bold and exciting addition to his collection. It not only brings a cherished piece of toy car history into the real world but also underscores his commitment to celebrating automotive excellence in all its forms. For those living out their childhood fantasies through real-life Hot Wheels, Dennis Collins continues to be a beacon of inspiration.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
