Much like Matchbox's Superfast series, Corgi jr started a new line called Rockets in response to the overwhelming popularity of Hot Wheels redlines at introduction. Mattel argued in court that Corgi copied them much too closely, and the court agreed, commanding Corgi to cease and desist. The Rockets line lasted less than two years, and produced some remarkable models. Some models were retrofit from the Husky or early Juniors, most models were reconfigured and folded into the Juniors line. A feature unique to the Rockets is a removeable chassis that allows for "adjusting" the wheels.

Some models are more available than others, and some playsets in particular are especially prized by Rockets collectors, the 007 James Bond and the Wall of Death Stunt sets being only two of the highly prized playsets featuring exclusive models.

While the Mercedes 280SL isn't particularly uncommon (forgive the double negative), I've been told in the past by seasoned European Rockets collectors that this particular orange chrome was released primarily if not exclusively in the US, making it a good bit harder to find than some of the other color issues.