Catalog
Matchbox > 1998 > Basic
The 1998 Matchbox basic model year marks the first complete lineup developed entirely under the Mattel brand. The most significant change introduced this year is the new numbering system. Until 1997, models were assigned a MACK number, ranging from MB01 to MB75, along with a letter indicating different castings that appeared in that position over the years.
For example, the model with MAN number MB0200, the Corvette Grand Sport, had been designated as MB02-G since its release in 1990 (the seventh casting in the MB02 position). However, in 1998, this model was reintroduced as #3, completely breaking away from the MACK numbering system.
The core lineup remains at 75 vehicles, but they are now organized into 10 categories, each containing 5 or 10 cars:
- Stars & Stripes (#01-05)
- Big Movers (#06-15)
- Cool Concepts (#16-20)
- Rescue Adventures (#21-30)
- Classic Decades (#31-40)
- Animals (#41-45)
- Rough & Tough (#46-55)
- Super Cars (#56-60)
- Motor Sports (#61-65)
- Street Cruisers (#66-75)
The U.S. market features 19 exclusive models, plus a special #76 Model A Ford, released specifically for the Hershey Toy Fair. Initially, American releases were packaged on a new long card, though some models were later repackaged with design modifications. Additionally, a few 1997 models were re-released on the first-generation long cards.
The Rest of the World (ROW) market also received 19 exclusive models, available in either blister packs or collector boxes in Australia. One standout difference is the #07 Peterbilt Tanker, which features BP livery in Australia, while the ROW version carries a Shell design.
