1972 Hot Wheels Rumblers Revolution
Casting #: 59493 listed variations
TOOLING
The Revolution (Casting #5961) was introduced in 1971 as part of the inaugural Hot Wheels RRRumblers line. The design is a heavy-duty three-wheeled "chopper" trike featuring a prominent, oversized chrome-plated V-twin engine and extended front forks. Unlike standard Hot Wheels cars, the Revolution was designed specifically for track performance, utilizing a rear-weighted distribution to maintain balance through Super-Charger power boosters. The "Roar" factor is achieved via an internal plastic "clacker" mechanism that vibrates against the rear axle when the wheels spin, simulating an engine growl.
RIDERS
The original rider figure associated with the Revolution is the Bearded Biker. This figure is characterized by a "tough" aesthetic, featuring a helmet, sunglasses, and a vest.
- Standard Colors: Brown vest/pants or Black vest/pants.
- Known Variations: Rare color variations include figures in Blue or Dark Grey. Information on specific production ratios for these variations is not available.
COLOR REGISTRY
The Revolution was primarily produced during the transition from Spectraflame to Enamel paints. The majority of 1971 releases feature the classic translucent Spectraflame finish over a polished metal body.
- Spectraflame Colors: Red, Aqua, Blue, Green, Magenta, Orange, Yellow, and Lime (Antifreeze).
- Enamel Colors: Documented in later 1972-1973 runs, primarily in Orange and Yellow.
CHASSIS & TIRES
The chassis is constructed of diecast metal with a chrome-plated engine and fuel tank assembly.
- Base-Plate Markings: "Revolution", "Mattel, Inc.", "Hong Kong", and the year "1970" (referring to the copyright/patent date).
- Tires: Features a thin, hard plastic front wheel and two wide "Power Pad" style rear wheels. The wheels typically feature a silver-chrome foil rim detail, which is prone to wear.
CONDITION
The RRRumblers line is notoriously fragile due to the materials used. Common "Condition Killers" for the Revolution include:
- Handlebars: The thin plastic handlebars are the most common point of failure and are frequently snapped off.
- Kickstands: Small plastic protrusions on the underside used for display are often sheared off.
- Rider Melt: Chemical reactions between the soft plastic of the rider and the paint of the trike can cause "melting" or permanent paint staining if stored together for decades.
- Chrome Oxidation: The engine and forks often lose their luster or develop "zinc pest" or pitting.
MARKET TRENDS
Values for the Revolution fluctuate based on the presence of the rider and the integrity of the handlebars.
- Loose (No Rider, Average Wear): $35.00 – $75.00 USD.
- Loose (Mint condition, Intact Handlebars, No Rider): $80.00 – $130.00 USD.
- Mint with Original Rider: $200.00 – $450.00 USD (Spectraflame Magenta and Aqua command the highest premiums).
- Blister Pack (Unopened): $600.00+ USD (Highly dependent on card condition and color).
