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Barrett-Jackson, renowned for its collector car auctions, continues its philanthropic tradition with the upcoming auction of a custom 2023 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon 4×4. This very unique Jeep Gladiator is a 1:1 scaled replica of a Mattel Matchbox version. The vehicle, bearing Lot #3002, will go under the hammer at the 2024 Scottsdale, Arizona Auction held from January 20 to 28 at WestWorld of Scottsdale. RealTruck is the core party who organized the build and is donating the entire proceeds from the sale to directly benefit Building Homes for Heroes, a charitable organization dedicated to supporting injured veterans.
Jeep Gladiator Matchbox Life-Size Marvel: The Mattel Toy Comes to Life
Partnering with Mattel, RealTruck introduced the life-size version of the Jeep Gladiator Matchbox toy at the 2023 SEMA Show and then again at the LA Auto Show, bringing childhood nostalgia to reality. Scheduled for auction at approximately 4:30 PM on Saturday, January 27, this unique Jeep Gladiator Rubicon promises not only to be a collector’s dream but also a contribution to the well-being of the nation’s servicemen and women.
Craig Jackson, Barrett-Jackson’s Chairman and CEO, expressed his enthusiasm for this charitable endeavor. “Mattel ignited our imaginations with their diecast cars, which were a staple in so many of our childhood toy boxes,” said Jackson. “The custom Jeep Gladiator Rubicon replica of the Matchbox being sold for charity in Scottsdale literally brings the toy version to life.”
Crafted By RealTruck and Doetsch Off-Road: A Purposeful Rig
Crafted by Doetsch Off-Road in Chandler, Arizona, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon perfectly mirrors the Mattel Matchbox toy car. The most significant difference is the scale magnitude comparing a 1:64 scale to a life-size 1:1 masterpiece. This premier overland-inspired 4×4 build is equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with an automatic transmission.
Premium parts and accessories from RealTruck enhance the Jeep’s appeal, including a Rugged Ridge Roof Top Tent, mounted to the GoRack bed rack, an N-Fab TrailSlider Step System, Rugged Ridge Jeep Flush Mount Tail Lights, and more.
Lee Riser, Vice President of Marketing at RealTruck, Inc., highlighted the significance of the collaboration. “The Matchbox/RealTruck Custom JT Gladiator is one of our most standout collaborations and anticipated builds,” said Riser. “We are proud to support our friends at Building Homes for Heroes with its sale benefiting the nation’s hard-working citizens and service members.”
Charity in Motion: Supporting Building Homes for Heroes
The entire hammer price of this unique vehicle will benefit Building Homes for Heroes. The organization focuses on bringing renewed hope to injured veterans by building or modifying homes and presenting them, mortgage-free.
Steve Davis, President of Barrett-Jackson, emphasized the auction’s impact on important causes. “Barrett-Jackson’s most treasured legacy will be its efforts to help the best of those among us,” said Davis. “I’m especially grateful for the service provided by the brave men and women of our U.S. military and first responders.”
Building Homes for Heroes Founder and President Andy Pujol expressed gratitude for the partnership. “Generosity like this makes it possible for us to continue to support injured veterans and first responders,” said Pujol. “We are thankful for the RealTruck and Barrett-Jackson partnership, which will uplift the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our country.”
Join the Auction Action
Automotive enthusiasts can register to bid on this charity vehicle and participate in the Scottsdale Auction here. Advance tickets for the 2024 Scottsdale Auction are available here. On location, Barrett-Jackson’s official hospitality partner, offers immersive Barrett-Jackson Experiences packages, allowing guests to join the action, enjoy premium hospitality, and connect with like-minded enthusiasts. Explore these offerings here.
