Die cast model collection is a thriving hobby among the young and the not so young. A major part of this business includes Johnny Lightning collectables. It is a brand of model cars originally produced by Topper Toys at the time when Mattel was also marketing their hugely successful Hot Wheels. In terms of competition, they lost to the high quality styling, casting and finish of the Hot Wheels. But Johnny Lightning introduced an innovation in which they molded a small hook under the front axle so that it can be propelled by a lever-driven catapult. This turned out to be faster than could be obtained by either gravity or battery power.

Even now, Johnny Lightning enjoys a following. eBay still has listings for the Johnny Lightning 04 Muscle Cars USA 1969 Camaro convertible. This model was first released in 2004. Some of the new items in stores include a Johnny Lightning Clue 1997 Lincoln Premier and the 1999 Dodge Viper. These collectables will keep hobbyists on their toes for many more years to come.