MUNCLE MIKES · CASTING GUIDE
Gremlin GrinderPhotograph the roof and rear of the base
Gremlin Grinder’s exposed engine is hard to miss. Two quieter details are just as useful: the roof graphic and the rear license-plate feature underneath. Get those into view before calling two green examples the same version.
The green Flying Colors car
The 1975 Hong Kong release has dark-green paint, a black interior, blue glazing and an exposed engine. Its roof graphic uses orange, black and yellow. Bases with and without the rear license-plate feature are documented.
Photograph the rear edge of the underside as well as the complete base. The feature may be difficult to judge from a side view, and its presence does not erase evidence of repairs or changed parts.
Herfy’s and Super Chromes add distinct decoration
The Herfy’s promotional version adds yellow Herfy’s lettering on the sides. Check both sides closely for wear or replacement decoration before treating an ordinary green car as that release.
The 1976 Super Chromes record has a chrome finish with red, green and black roof decoration and redlines. The 1977 listing changes to blackwalls.
Keep plating wear separate from missing printing. A polished surface may look bright while losing more of the finish you are trying to assess.
The later antifreeze car is a separate comparison
The pictured 2009 sELECTIONs version has an antifreeze Spectraflame finish, Gremlin lettering and Red Line Club emblems on its sides, plus a chrome metal China base.
Its name and red-striped wheels do not make it a 1975 example. Use the decoration, country mark and packaging together.
Check the exposed engine, glazing and wheel alignment for damage. A restored display piece can still be enjoyable, provided repainting and replacement parts remain in its description. Compare the Poison Pinto guide for another modified compact from the period.
