Quick Value Snapshot

Prices for the Six Shooter vary significantly based on paint color, interior variation, and the condition of the chrome engine components.

Collector Summary

The Six Shooter is a fantasy casting designed by Paul Tam and released in 1971. It is notable for its six-wheel configuration and long, sleek profile. Unlike many models from the era that saw production in both the United States and Hong Kong, the Six Shooter was produced exclusively at the Hong Kong plant during its 1971-1972 run. It features a prominent exposed chrome engine and a large canopy-style windshield.

Known Variations and Details

• Production Era: 1971-1972.
• Country of Origin: Hong Kong only.
• Interior: Primarily black. White interior variations exist and are considered rare premiums.
• The Yellow Exception: While white interiors are rare on most colors, the Yellow Six Shooter is commonly found with a white interior. In this specific color, the black interior is the harder-to-find variation.
• Wheels/Base: Features a 6-wheel setup consisting of 2 Medium wheels in the front and 4 Large wheels in the rear.
• Glass: Typically features blue-tinted glass characteristic of Hong Kong production.

Color and Desirability Notes

The Six Shooter was released in several Spectraflame colors. Common colors include Blue, Aqua, and Green. More difficult colors to locate include Magenta, Yellow, and Orange. Rare colors like Salmon or Pink are highly sought after by advanced collectors. Because all examples are Hong Kong-based, the paint tends to be thinner and prone to "toning" (darkening over time) compared to US-made cars.

Condition Factors That Affect Value

• Chrome Wear: The large exposed engine and side pipes are plastic chrome. Friction or "chrome rub" significantly reduces the value.
• Axle Straightness: With six wheels, the potential for bent axles is increased. A car that does not sit flat on all six wheels is less desirable.
• Toning: Collectors look for "bright" examples. Darkened or spotted Spectraflame paint is common for Hong Kong castings and generally lowers the price.
• Windshield Integrity: The large plastic canopy is prone to scratches and cracking.

Restorer Notes

Finding original "Deep Dish" Hong Kong style wheels for this casting can be challenging, especially in two different sizes. Because the engine is a separate plastic piece, it is often removed for re-chroming. Restorers should note that original white interiors are difficult to source; most "white interior" cars found on the secondary market should be checked for authenticity to ensure they are not modern reproductions or swaps.

Buyer Cautions

Be wary of "put-together" cars. Because the Six Shooter is a Hong Kong casting, the base is held on by tabs or screws depending on the specific assembly. Verify that the interior color matches the expected rarity for the paint color. Ensure all six wheels are original Redlines; it is common for sellers to replace missing wheels with later-era "Blackwall" wheels or reproduction parts without disclosure.

Seller Notes

When listing a Six Shooter, high-quality photos of the engine chrome and the underside are essential. Sellers should clearly state if the car has a black or white interior, as this is a primary price driver. If the car is Yellow, specifically note the interior color, as collectors will be looking for the less-common black interior in that specific instance.

Pricing Analysis

Actual Sold Prices: Market data shows that common colors in "Good" condition (visible play wear but intact paint and straight axles) generally sell in a consistent mid-tier range. "Near Mint" examples in rare colors can reach several times that amount.

Active Asking Prices: Asking prices on major auction sites often sit 30-50% higher than actual realized sold prices. High asking prices for "untested" or "attic find" cars should be viewed with caution unless the condition is clearly documented.

Note: Confidence in pricing for rare interior/color combinations is limited due to the low frequency of public sales.

Listings to Exclude or Treat Carefully

• Repainted/Customs: These do not represent the market value of original survivors.
• Restored Cars: Cars with replacement "repro" wheels or re-chromed engines should be priced lower than original-finish cars.
• Bent Axles: Listings where the car "dogs" or sits unevenly should be treated as "Play-Worn" regardless of paint quality.

New Collector Advice

The Six Shooter is an excellent entry point into "Heavyweight" era fantasy designs. For your first purchase, focus on finding an example with "bright" paint and a clean, unscratched windshield. Don't overpay for a common Blue or Aqua example unless the chrome is exceptionally reflective.

Advanced Collector Notes

Advanced collectors focus on the "White Interior" variations for colors other than Yellow. Finding a Magenta or Orange Six Shooter with a white interior and no toning is a significant challenge. Additionally, look for "transition" examples where the paint application might show different shades on the body versus the base, though the Six Shooter typically has a metal base that matches the body color.

Short Page Blurb

The 1971 Six Shooter is a six-wheeled Paul Tam masterpiece. Produced only in Hong Kong, this long-profile Redline is famous for its rare white interior variations and its unique 2-medium, 4-large wheel setup. A must-have for fans of 1970s fantasy Spectraflame designs.

Disclaimer

Values provided are estimates based on historical secondary market data. This guide does not guarantee specific prices. Market conditions fluctuate, and the value of any individual collectible is ultimately determined by what a willing buyer pays a willing seller.