Diecast model cars are more than just toys. These well-crafted cars help showcase historical and mechanical innovation cars have gone through over the years. Collectable diecasts are normally created using metal. The metal used makes it possible for them to demonstrate a high level of detail. In fact, if you overlooked size while looking at one, you would think you are staring at the original car. The metal used also gives it longevity, a big plus for collectors planning on keeping them.
If you are new to model cars and interested to buy one am sure you would love to know more about them. In particular, you would like to know how you can get your hands on diecast model cars. Or better yet, what influences their value whether Ford Mustang GT or an Alfa Romeo model car. Additional questions you might have include what’s a perfect size or scale for a model car? How big should they be to suit my collection? Even of more importance, how can you start a model car collection? If this is you read on below to find everything you need to know about collections model cars.
A Brief History
Interest in diecast model cars started way back in the 1990s when they were introduced in the market. They are very popular with just about every car enthusiast regardless of their age. This can be attributed to the fact that they offer an opportunity to own high-end sports or luxury car models they love. These cars are normally expensive and out of reach for many thus the need for model cars. Model cars big or small are designed to perfectly resemble high-end high-quality full-sized cars. Over the years, cast model cars collectables have underwent a series of advancements. These advancements were evident in the 1930s with the 1932 ford-3 window seat car model. This high quality piece perfectly replicated the original car. By 1960s, it was evident that these models were a perfect replica ultimately increasing their popularity.
Diecast Model Cars Scale and Sizes
One of the positives associated with scale model cars is that they come in a variety of scales or sizes. In terms of scale and size, they normally range between 1/18 scale and 1/64 scale. Understanding a model car’s scale is very simple and vital for any collector or enthusiast. In this case, a scale represents comparison of the size of a modelled car to the original real-life. The higher the second number the smaller the diecast car is compared to the original real-life car.
Typically, manufacturers tend to focus more on model car scales with 1/64 and 1/18 diecast. However, recent popularity and interest have led to some manufacturers producing small model cars. In terms of scale and size, these cars are 1/144 and can go up to ¼ scales. Popular scales normally are 1/64, 1/43 and 1/32. 1/64 scale measures 3 inches long and is normally the smallest model cars produced. It’s a go-to choice for many especially with brands like NASCAR and Matchbox. The 1/43 and 1/32 usually measure between 4 and 6 inches.
1:12 2017 Bathurst 1000 Winner – VF Commodore – Erebus Penrite Racing #9 – Reynolds/Youlden
Limited Edition (LE)/Special Edition (SE) Diecast Cars
If there is a word or term you are likely going to hear a lot with model cars is limited or special edition. What this basically means is that a model car is rare and as such highly sought after. Limited or special edition models are usually produced after the last model car in production is manufactured. Limited or special edition model cars include a seat coupe diecast model, coupe diecast model car and a Ford-3 window seat coupe.
Such model cars boast unique exterior and interior features. This includes things like special tyres, wheels or any other model car modification like a different paint layer. Limited or special edition cars come with a special vehicle number that outlines the number of cars produced. Model cars that come accompanied with original papers are of greater value as one can verify its authenticity easily.
Useful Diecast Model Cars Terminology
In addition to special and limited edition, there are other model car terminologies you should know. Familiarising yourself with this terminologies goes a long way especially if you are new to model cars. The same also applies if you would like to collect a few diecast model cars. That said below is a look at some of the important terminologies.
Car Number – Number is written on the side of a model car.
Black Window (BW) – This term refers to a model car with black windows. The black windows mean one cannot see the interior of a model car.
Hood Open – This term is used to indicate whether the hood of a model car can be opened. Large-scale cars like 1/24 and 1/18 diecast cars are known to have hoods that open.
Manufacture (MFG) – Company responsible for producing or manufacturing a model car.
Driver/Description – Used to refer to the name of the driver. Additional information like car sponsor makes up what is a model car’s description or driver details.
Clear Windows (CW) – As the name suggests, these refer to model cars with clear windows. This is normally done intentionally to allow one to see the interior of the model car.
Bank – Used to refer to model cars with a coin slot. This slot is normally located at the base of the car’s rear window. A locking door at the bottom helps in ensuring the coin gets out if needed.
Condition of A Diecast Model Car
There are four main conditions of a model car. These four are mint condition, mint on mint card (MOMC), mint in box (MIB) and other.
Mint Conditions – This refers to a model car that’s in good condition. In other words, it’s a model car that has no signs of wear and tear or even defects. Furthermore, the model car’s paint finish is in perfect condition.
Mint On Mint Card (MOMC) – A term used to describe model cars that are not only in pristine condition but also in its original packaging. It’s not just the model car, the container or packaging should also be in good condition. If these two are true, the model car is considered to be in MOMC condition.
Mint In Box (MIB) – This is a model car that is in excellent condition with bright shiny red paintwork. Additionally, it should be in its original packaging.
Other – This is a term typically used to refer to a model car that has some defects. This might be issues like missing parts, wear and tear, chipped paints and much more.
Understanding The Value Of Model Cars
Now that you have some understanding of diecast model cars, you might think to buy at least one or two. Before doing this, it’s important for you to understand the value of model cars. You can go about this in a number of ways. Despite this, however, it is advised that you seek advice from experts like Kollectable Kaos.
There are two main factors that determine the true value of model cars, condition and availability. If the condition of a model car is good and it’s not easily available its value will be high. If it’s in good condition and it’s easily available, the value might not be as high.
In addition to these two, there are three other factors that determine the value of model cars. These three are the manufacturer, size and trends. Below is an in-depth look at these three factors together with condition and availability.
Availability
If diecast model cars are produced by a manufacturer in limited numbers, their value will be high. This is attributed to the fact that they won’t be as many in the market. In other words, its rarity increases its overall potential value. If a model car is rare and is a model or make that is highly sought after, its value will be even higher. The same also applies if it has a highly sought after sponsor tag.
Condition
Like with any other item, if a model car is in good condition, its value is bound to go up. Collectors, many of them, mainly focus on model cars that are in good condition. Rarely will you find a collector interested in model cars with defects as minor as they might be? Collectors are mainly interested in diecast model cars that show no sign of wear tear. Plus, they should spot clean coat of paint with no blemishes.
Size
Size is a key factor when it comes to determining the value of a model car. Generally, the big sized model car tends to be of great value compared to small model cars. However, a good number of collectors choose not to go for big model cars to add to their collectables. This can be attributed to the fact that they require more room.
Trends
What’s happening in the market? What’s happening in the world of sports especially car sports? In most cases, you’ll find the value of model cars being influenced by a certain driver winning a championship. He might even choose to retire or has an accident; all these are bound to increase the value of a model car.
Manufacturer
Some collectors prefer being in possession of model cars produced by well-known manufacturers. This includes model cars like biante classic carlectables and window seat coupe diecast. This preference results in the value of such cars increasing drastically especially if they are limited. To be specific, collectors prefer to have model cars produced by manufacturers from the early 1990s.
In Conclusion
There you have it, everything you need to know about diecast model cars. Just in case you need additional information regarding model cars, we suggest you carry out one of our suggested searches.
If you would like to know more about model cars feel free to contact one of our model car experts. We are always happy and ready to share our knowledge on diecast model cars. You can contact us over the phone by dialling (08) 8262 8234. You can as well email us at contact@kollectablekaos.com.au.
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