I think occasionally some of us might forget that Hot Wheels original purpose is as toys for kids. We grew up with them and we love them, but we also see them as collectibles (and occasionally pieces of art and/or worth something). Today my son went with his Nana to Fred Meyer and was allowed to get 10 cars (due to Fred Meyer's infamous 10 for 10 sale). Here is what he picked, without any influence (cough cough from me)
1. Whip Creamer II (this is actually his third copy of this, although one has a different color scheme)
2. 2009 Ford F-150
3. Chicane
4. 1974 Brazilian Charger
5. Toyota AE-86
6. Quick N Six
7. Pagani Huayra
8. Wattzup
9. Chevy Camaro Hot Wheels Edition (the red version is one of his favorites)
10. '86 Monte Carlo SS
Of these I own 4,5, and 10. Anyway, I think it's interesting to see what an actual kid likes who is not considering rarity or value but just what he likes. Perhaps this even gives us some perspective as to why they aren't all brown manual wagons....