Quick Value Snapshot

Due to the specific one-year production run, values for the Odd Job vary significantly based on the condition of the white plastic shell and the presence of original stickers. Beater/Restoration quality: $30 – $50. Good/Very Good: $60 – $110. Excellent/Near Mint: $125 – $275. Mint on Card (MOC): Can exceed $450 depending on color rarity and blister condition.

Collector Summary

The Odd Job was released exclusively in 1973 as part of Mattel’s effort to reuse existing molds during a period of declining sales and budget constraints. It is a direct reissue of the 1971 Mutt Mobile. To differentiate the casting, Mattel removed the "Mutt Mobile" text from the sides of the white plastic shell, removed the two dog figures that originally sat in the rear, and updated the chassis name to "Odd Job." Like most 1973 releases, it was produced in Hong Kong and features enamel paint finishes rather than the spectraflame colors found on earlier Redlines.

Known Variations and Details

• Production Year: 1973 only.
• Country of Origin: Hong Kong.
• Wheel Type: Features the 1973-style "through-hole" capped Redline wheels.
• Chassis: Changed from "Mutt Mobile" to "Odd Job." The base is typically unpainted die-cast metal.
• Shell: A white plastic removable shell. The 1973 version lacks the embossed "Mutt Mobile" lettering found on the 1971 version.
• Interior/Dogs: The interior was modified to remove the mounting points for the dogs; the dogs are not included in this release.

Color and Desirability Notes

The Odd Job was released in several enamel colors common to the 1973 line. Yellow is the most frequently encountered color. Magenta, Blue, and Orange are also known. Collectors generally prioritize the condition of the white plastic shell over the specific body color, though certain rare enamel shades can command a premium among 1973 completionists.

Condition Factors That Affect Value

• Shell Integrity: The white plastic shell is prone to cracking, especially around the mounting points. A shell with "yellowing" from UV exposure significantly reduces value.
• Stickers: Original stickers are often peeling or missing. Examples with 100% intact, original decals are highly prized.
• Engine Chrome: The exposed engine parts are prone to "chrome wear" or oxidation, turning them a dull grey.
• Axle Straightness: Like many 1973 models, the axles can be thin and easily bent, affecting how the car sits or rolls.

Restorer Notes

Restoring an Odd Job often involves finding a donor shell from a 1971 Mutt Mobile, though purists will note the lack of embossed lettering on the 1973 original. High-quality reproduction decals are available, but they must be disclosed upon resale. Because the dogs were omitted in 1973, adding reproduction dogs to an Odd Job technically creates a "custom" Mutt Mobile hybrid rather than a factory-correct Odd Job.

Buyer Cautions

Watch for sellers misidentifying the 1971 Mutt Mobile as an Odd Job or vice-versa. If the shell says "Mutt Mobile" on the side, it is not a factory-correct Odd Job shell. Additionally, ensure the white shell is not a modern reproduction; original shells have specific molding marks on the interior and a distinct "aged" feel to the plastic.

Seller Notes

When listing an Odd Job, clear photos of the chassis name and the sides of the white shell are mandatory to prove it is the 1973 release. If the car has its original stickers, highlight them as "factory original." Be sure to mention if the shell is cracked or if the plastic has remained bright white, as this is a major selling point.

Pricing Analysis

Confidence in the market for the Odd Job is moderate. While it is not as iconic as the Twin Mill or Beach Bomb, 1973 models have a dedicated following because they were produced in lower quantities.

Active Asking Prices: Sellers often list "Excellent" examples between $200 and $350, though these listings may sit for long periods.
Actual Sold Prices: Most "loose" (no package) examples in Great to Excellent condition consistently close between $110 and $180. Prices drop sharply for cars with cracked shells or heavy play wear.

Listings to Exclude or Treat Carefully

• Mutt Mobile Conversions: Cars with dogs added or shells with embossed lettering.
• "White Shell" Replicas: Modern 3D-printed or resin-cast shells do not hold the value of original vintage plastic.
• Re-painted Bases: 1973 bases were generally unpainted; any "shiny" silver paint on the chassis usually indicates a restoration.

New Collector Advice

The Odd Job is a great entry point into the "transition era" (1973) Redlines. It is more affordable than many 1968-1972 models but still offers the classic Redline wheel aesthetic. Focus on finding one with a clean, white, uncracked shell first, as the metal body paint is usually more durable than the plastic components.

Advanced Collector Notes

For the advanced collector, the challenge is finding "Water Tight" examples—cars where the enamel paint is perfectly smooth (free of "toning" or rashes) and the white plastic has zero UV yellowing. MOC (Mint on Card) examples of the Odd Job are increasingly difficult to find, as the 1973 card art is unique and highly collectible in its own right.

Short Page Blurb

The 1973 Odd Job is a unique piece of Hot Wheels history, representing the transition from the Spectraflame era to the enamel era. A re-tool of the Mutt Mobile, this dog-less delivery van is a must-have for those collecting the elusive 1973 Redline series.

Disclaimer

Historical pricing data is based on past auction results and collector market trends. Prices are subject to change based on market demand. RedlinePriceGuide.com does not guarantee specific valuations or future pricing trends.