The first Hot Wheels lineup in 1968 contained 16 original cars, commonly known as the Original Sweet 16.
Mattel introduced the first Hot Wheels cars in 1968, positioning them as faster, more flamboyant alternatives to Matchbox models. The lineup combined customized versions of recognizable American cars with imaginative fantasy designs. Its cars used low-friction wheels and bright Spectraflame finishes, helping the new brand stand out immediately.
The Sweet 16 included models such as the Custom Camaro, Custom Corvette, Deora, Hot Heap, Python, Silhouette and Custom Volkswagen. Although the cars are associated with the 1968 launch, some collecting histories note that manufacturing and development began during the preceding year.
A common mix-up is confusing the original 16-car launch with later annual releases. Hot Wheels expanded quickly: the 1969 range added many new models, including the Twin Mill, Splittin’ Image, Torero and Turbofire. The number 16 refers specifically to the foundational first lineup.