ZOWEES
With the success of Hot Wheels, Mattel introduced a new line of minature cars in a 1972 promotion with the Shell Oil Company. These cars are about half the size of a Hot Wheels car. Later on in 1972, these cars were made available through the retail stores as well but as a variation of the Shell Oil versions. The Shell Oil versions were free with a minimum purchase of gasoline or could be purchased alone for 49 cents. As these were very popular, 6 additional cars were created. These 6 were only available for sale in retail stores. There are 14 cars total, all of which are identified with the markings of Mattel and Hong Kong on the base.
Beddy Bye
Shell Version - Trailer Hitch, Carved Posts, Posts extend above canopy
Retail Version - No Trailer Hitch, Plain Posts, Posts flush with canopy
Baby Buggy
Shell Version - Trailer Hitch, No Antenna, Large Bonnet
Retail Version - No Trailer Hitch, Antenna, Small Bonnet
Bumble Seat
Shell Version - Trailer Hitch, No Antenna
Retail Version - No Trailer Hitch, Antenna
Covered Draggin'
Shell Version - Trailer Hitch, No Antenna
Retail Version - No Trailer Hitch, Antenna
Desperado
Shell Version - Trailer Hitch, Small Sombrero
Retail Version - No Trailer Hitch, Large Sombrero
Diablo
Shell Version - Trailer Hitch, Small Horns
Retail Version - No Trailer Hitch, Large Horns
Good Knight
Shell Version - Trailer Hitch, Short Ridge on Helmet
Retail Version - No Trailer Hitch, Tall Ridge on Helmet
Red Lighter
Shell Version - Trailer Hitch, Antenna, Short Dome
Retail Version - No Trailer Hitch, No Antenna, Tall Dome
These were available in retail only
Fire Truck, Shifty, Light My Fire, Home Sweet Home, Numb Skull, Goin' Fishin
Packaging for the Zowees included:
A Retail Case for Sears A Retail 4 Pack for the Shelves
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