1976 Hot Wheels Redline Neet Streeter Collector Guide
Quick Value Snapshot
| Condition |
Estimated Price Range |
| Play-worn / Poor |
$10 — $25 |
| Good / Average |
$30 — $55 |
| Near Mint / Mint |
$65 — $120+ |
| Mint on Card (MOC) |
$150 — $300+ |
Collector Summary
The Neet Streeter was released in 1976 as part of the Flying Colors series. While it appears to be a new casting at first glance, it is actually a modified version of the 1969 Classic '36 Ford Coupe. Produced in Hong Kong, the casting was updated for the mid-70s aesthetic. The most significant changes from the 1969 original include the elimination of the opening rumble seat (replaced by a solid rear deck) and the addition of a black plastic hood scoop. It features a metal chassis and was also released in the popular Super Chromes series during the same year.
Known Variations and Details
- Flying Colors Version: Light blue enamel body with red, white, and blue side striping. The rear deck features the text "Oldie But Goodie."
- Super Chromes Version: Polished chrome finish with similar red, white, and blue "Flying Colors" style tampos.
- Interior: Black plastic interior.
- Hood Scoop: A distinct black plastic insert protruding through the hood.
- Wheels: Through-hole Redline wheels (Small in front, Large in rear).
- Base: Unpainted metal chassis, usually marked with the original "Classic '36 Ford Coupe" patent info but updated for the era.
Color and Desirability Notes
The Light Blue enamel is the standard and most recognized version of the Neet Streeter. Because it was produced during the transition away from spectraflame paint toward enamel "Flying Colors," it lacks the "candy" shine of earlier redlines but is highly desired for its classic 1970s graphics. The Super Chromes version is equally popular, though collectors often seek it out specifically to complete Super Chrome sub-sets. Pristine graphics (tampos) are the primary driver of desirability for this casting.
Condition Factors That Affect Value
- Tampo Integrity: The "Oldie But Goodie" text and the stripes are prone to chipping. Since the graphics define the 1976 release, any significant wear to these decals reduces value considerably.
- Hood Scoop: The black plastic scoop can become loose, chipped, or missing entirely. A missing scoop significantly devalues the car.
- Base Oxidation: The metal bases can develop "zinc pest" or dark oxidation. Bright, shiny bases command a premium.
- Wheel Chrome: While the wheels have the red line, the chrome "hub" portion often rubs off with play.
Restorer Notes
Restoring a Neet Streeter requires attention to the hood scoop. Because this is a separate plastic piece, it must be removed before stripping the body. Collectors should note that while the body shells are similar to the 1969 Classic '36 Ford, the rear deck is cast shut. Converting a Neet Streeter into a '36 Ford Coupe (or vice versa) is difficult due to the casting changes at the rear and the hood cutout for the scoop.
Buyer Cautions
Buyers should be wary of "custom" versions where a 1969 Classic '36 Ford has been painted blue to mimic a Neet Streeter. The key identifier is the rear deck: if there is a cut-line for a rumble seat, it is not a genuine 1976 Neet Streeter. Conversely, ensure the black hood scoop is original and not a 3D-printed or resin replacement unless disclosed by the seller.
Seller Notes
When listing a Neet Streeter, high-quality photos of the rear deck text ("Oldie But Goodie") and the hood scoop are essential. Mentioning the wheel type (Redlines) is important, as this casting was produced during the final years of the Redline era. Sellers should check the base for "Hong Kong" markings to confirm authenticity for researchers.
Pricing Analysis
The market for the Neet Streeter is stable. As a later-era Redline, it is generally more affordable than the 1967-1972 spectraflame cars, making it an accessible entry point for new collectors. Active asking prices on collector sites often range from $80 to $125 for high-grade examples, but actual sold prices for loose, near-mint cars typically settle in the $60 to $90 range. Confidence in this pricing data is high due to the volume of trades for Flying Colors era vehicles.
Listings to Exclude or Treat Carefully
- Blackwall Conversions: Later versions of this casting were released with Blackwall wheels. These are not Redlines and should not be priced as such.
- Missing Scoops: Cars missing the black plastic hood scoop are considered "parts cars" and usually sell for under $15.
- Reproductions: Be cautious of listings with modern "tribute" decals applied to old play-worn bodies.
New Collector Advice
The Neet Streeter is an excellent "bridge" car for those moving from modern Hot Wheels into the Redline era. It features the iconic Redline wheels and a metal chassis but uses enamel paint similar to modern cars. It is one of the more affordable ways to own a piece of Hot Wheels history that utilizes a classic 1960s-era mold.
Advanced Collector Notes
For the completionist, the goal is to find a "White Back" carded example (Flying Colors) or the specific Super Chromes blister. Because the enamel paint is more durable than spectraflame, finding a "dead mint" loose example is possible, but finding one with perfectly centered tampos and a perfectly seated hood scoop requires patience.
Short Page Blurb
The 1976 Neet Streeter is a classic Flying Colors era Redline. Based on the 1969 '36 Ford Coupe casting, it features a signature light blue enamel finish, "Oldie But Goodie" graphics, and a distinct black hood scoop. It remains a favorite for collectors who appreciate the transition from early Redlines to the bold graphic styles of the mid-70s.
Disclaimer
The values provided in this guide are estimates based on historical secondary market trends. RedlinePriceGuide.com does not guarantee any specific value for a vehicle. Market conditions fluctuate, and the value of any individual item depends on the specific buyer, seller, and physical condition of the car.
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