Designer and Inspiration:

The Turbo Heater was designed by Larry Wood. It is a fantasy design shaped like a Zippo-style flip-top lighter.

Historical Context and Production Years:

It was first released in 1984 in the mainline series, which corresponds to model 9524 with Blackwall (BW) wheels.

Unique Aspects:

The most unique feature is the hinged top piece that flips open, just like a real lighter, to reveal the "wick" and "flint wheel" molded into the chrome plastic interior. The first release was chrome-plated.

Similar Castings:

It is one of the "object cars," similar in concept to the "Gun Slinger" (a revolver) or the "Sweet 16" (a party favor).

Variations and Special Editions:

The initial release was chrome. It was also produced in gold chrome. It was a short-lived casting.