The first issue of MotorTend magazine hit racks 75 years ago. To celebrate the anniversary, the magazine is partnering with Mattel for a Matchbox version of the 1949 Kurtis Sport Car, which was on MotorTrend’s first cover.
Publisher Robert E. Petersen launched MotorTrend following a recommendation from Frank Kurtis to create a magazine that covered new cars.
“Petersen could have put any car on the first cover, but he chose the Kurtis because it spoke to future automotive design and cutting-edge trends,” says Ed Loh, Editor-in-Chief of MotorTrend magazine. “Bringing the Kurtis to life as a die-cast for the world to enjoy is the ultimate way to celebrate MotorTrend’s 75th anniversary.”
The new die-cast features the 1949 Kurtis Sport Car that was on the first issue of MotorTrend. | Source: Mattel
The new die-cast features the 1949 Kurtis Sport Car that was on the first issue of MotorTrend. | Source: Mattel
The die-cast is debuting at the first stop of MotorTrend’s Hot Rod Power Tower 2024 in Bowling Green, Kentucky alongside a life-size version of the car.
“Creating this special Matchbox Kurtis die-cast reminded us of the legacy that MotorTrend has created through decades of reporting on the car trends that define our industry,” says Bryan Benedict, Key Principal Designer at Matchbox. “We’re excited to offer this special collectible with fans and celebrate automotive innovation and excellence with MotorTrend.”
The Matchbox Kurtis 1:64 die-cast is available now at mattelcreations.com for $30.
