Twevle new models were introduced. Also available were three models with different colors/tampo that could only be found in race sets. The Speed Shift 500 set contained the blue Porsche 959 and the yellow Testarossa. The Dinosaur Mud Pit set had the olive green Blazer 4×4. Also introduced were color-changer models. These would change color when heated or cooled. Two models – Alien and Talbot Lago, were introduced in temporary short-run colors before being issued in other colors.
Since 1988 was the 20th Anniversary of Hot Wheels cars, Mattel issued special collectors’ edition vacuum-metallized models. These were available in gold, silver, or both. Each special edition was packaged with two regular models on a special blistercard.
Alien – 71mm – 1988 – LIST
Flame Stopper – 82mm – 1988 – LIST
Lamborghini Countach – 70mm – 1988 – LIST
Nissan Hardbody – 77mm – 1988 – LIST
Porsche 959 – 70mm – 1988 – LIST
Radar Ranger – 70mm – 1988 – LIST
Ratmobile – 74mm – 1988 – LIST
Rocketank – 64mm – 1988 – LIST
Rodzilla – 76mm – 1988 – LIST
Shadow Jet – 75mm – 1988 – LIST
Sting Rod – 76mm – 1988 – LIST
Talbot Lago – 83mm – 1988 – LIST