My favorite version of my favorite Muscle Machines casting. Typically this model had a stake side bed, this was the only time anything like this "perp cage" was put on the back of this model.

The original Muscle Machines that debuted somewhere around the year 2000 were based on the artwork of Rohan Day. Evoking the earlier work of Ed Roth and B. K. Tayler, the Muscle Machines line influenced other diecast makers of the time (JL Zingers were in direct response to Muscle Machines, HW also came out with a number of "tooned" models). Funline Muscle Machines was the first diecast line to issue Red/White/Blue stars and stripes patriotic themed models in the aftermath of the 9/11 attack on the Trade Center in New York.

Funline appeared to be just getting stronger with the JGTC, Jesse James and Nitro Doorslammers in addition to the 'Tooned cars, when they suddenly sold to Action / Motorsports Authentics. A few releases of 'Tooned models followed, but the fire was gone, and the line quietly died. Maisto in turn picked up the tools and branding and attempted a relaunch that didn't go as well as hoped, and again the line went quiet and hasn't been used since.