1971 Hot Wheels Rumblers Rip Snorter
Casting #: 60328 listed variations
TOOLING AND DESIGN
The Rip Snorter (model number 5957) was introduced in 1971 as part of the initial Hot Wheels RRRumblers line. Unlike the two-wheeled motorcycles in the series, the Rip Snorter is a trike (three-wheeled) design. It features a heavy-duty die-cast body with a prominent, oversized rear-mounted V8 engine and six exhaust pipes (three on each side) exiting toward the rear. Due to its three-wheel configuration and wide rear wheelbase, it was notably more stable on the orange plastic RRRumblers track compared to the two-wheeled counterparts that required a "track stabilizer" (the clear plastic piece). It did not feature a mechanical 'roar' mechanism; its appeal was centered on its aggressive stance and high-speed track compatibility.
RIDERS
The original rider figure associated with the Rip Snorter is commonly referred to as "The Chopper". This figure is characterized by long hair, a vest or jacket, and blue jeans.
- Documented Figure Colors: Figures are typically found with blue, white, or red shirts/jackets.
- Hair Variations: Variations in hair color include brown, blonde, and occasionally black.
- Fitment: The rider is secured to the vehicle via a small plastic peg on the seat that fits into a hole in the figure's crotch/base.
COLOR REGISTRY
The Rip Snorter was produced during the Spectraflame era. While most RRRumblers transitioned into enamels later, the Rip Snorter is most frequently documented in the following Spectraflame finishes:
- Spectraflame Blue
- Spectraflame Aqua
- Spectraflame Green
- Spectraflame Magenta (Rose)
- Spectraflame Orange
- Spectraflame Purple
- Spectraflame Red
- Spectraflame Yellow (Gold)
CHASSIS & TIRES
The chassis is constructed of die-cast zinc alloy (Zamac).
- Base Markings: The underside is embossed with: "RIP SNORTER", "MATTEL INC", "HONG KONG", and "U.S. & FOREIGN PAT. PEND.".
- Wheels: The vehicle features two large rear wheels and one small front wheel. The rear wheels are black plastic with chrome-foil "Redline" style hub details, mounted on heavy-duty torsion axles. The front wheel is a smaller, thinner black plastic wheel.
CONDITION KILLERS
Collectors should inspect for the following common points of failure:
- Handlebars: The thin plastic handlebars are the most frequent point of breakage. They are often snapped off or bent.
- Exhaust Tips: The ends of the six exhaust pipes are prone to snapping if the vehicle was dropped.
- Chrome Wear: The engine and exhaust pipes were vacuum-metallized chrome. This finish is highly susceptible to "greying" or "toning" due to skin oils and environmental exposure.
- Rider Peg: The small plastic peg on the seat is often sheared off, making it impossible to secure a rider figure without adhesive.
MARKET TRENDS
The value of the Rip Snorter is heavily dictated by the presence of the original rider and the integrity of the handlebars.
- Loose (No Rider, Average Wear): $30.00 – $60.00 USD.
- Loose (No Rider, Near Mint): $75.00 – $110.00 USD.
- Mint with Original Rider: $175.00 – $300.00+ USD (Value increases significantly for rarer Spectraflame colors like Red or Magenta).
- Blister Pack (Unopened): $500.00+ USD (Highly dependent on card condition and color).
