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TOOLING

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The Desperado casting (Model Number: 6013) utilizes the signature Hot Wheels Zowee multi-part snap-fit assembly. The design consists of a high-impact injection-molded plastic upper body and a die-cast metal chassis.

• Scale: Consistent with the 1:125 micro-scale established for the Zowee line.
• Assembly: The plastic component (featuring the horse and rider) is secured to the die-cast base via internal plastic tabs that friction-lock into the metal chassis.
• Wheels: Features standard Zowee-style "button" wheels with no axles, integrated into the die-cast base.

VARIATIONS

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The Desperado is classified as one of the "Additional Six" retail-exclusive models released in the second wave of the Zowee line (1972-1973).

• Promotional Status: This model was not part of the "Original Eight" Shell Gasoline promotion.
• Retail Exclusivity: As an Additional Six model, there are no Shell promotional variants or alternative wheel/base configurations documented. It was produced exclusively for retail blister pack distribution.

COLOR REGISTRY

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In strict accordance with documented production history for the standard retail release:

• Body Color: Blue (Solid Plastic).
• Base: Unpainted Die-cast Metal (Tumbled Finish).
• Detailing: Information not available regarding secondary factory paint applications; standard models relied on the base plastic color for visual identification.

INTERNATIONAL

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The Desperado casting was released in international markets, most notably the United Kingdom and Europe, under different branding.

• Branding: Marketed under the "Fun-Buggies" line.
• Variations: While the packaging featured localized graphics, the physical casting (Blue plastic on a die-cast base) remained identical to the North American release.

CONDITION

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The Desperado is prone to several specific "Condition Killers" due to its delicate micro-scale architecture:

• Structural Fragility: The thin plastic legs of the horse and the rider's outstretched arms are highly susceptible to stress fractures and snapping.
• Base Oxidation: The unpainted die-cast metal base is prone to "zinc rot" or surface oxidation if stored in high-humidity environments, resulting in a dull grey or white powdery finish.
• Tab Failure: The internal snap-fit tabs often become brittle with age; models that have been "popped" apart frequently suffer from loose or rattling upper bodies.

MARKET TRENDS

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Historical value ranges for the Desperado are dictated by the integrity of the plastic limbs and the presence of the original retail card.

• Loose (Fair to Good): $15.00 – $30.00 (Often missing limbs or featuring heavy base oxidation).
• Loose (Near Mint): $40.00 – $65.00 (Must have intact limbs and bright base metal).
• Mint on Card (MOC): $85.00 – $160.00 (Values fluctuate based on the "Additional Six" card art condition, which is rarer than the original Shell promotional cards).