( 
)
- This guide intends to give a simple explanation about the standard scales for toy cars. This is very useful when buying or listing this cars because most toys have a category related to the scale.
- The scale is the relation bitwin the size of the model and the real life vehicle, this means for example that a 1/43 scale model is 43 times smaller than the real life vehicle. When larger is the dividing number, smaller is the model. For example a 1/18 model is larger than a 1/43 model in size.
- The most common scales in toy cars are 1/18, 1/24, 1/43, 1/64 & 1/87 - Not all the models are exactly in a standard scale but should be close to one of them. And not all models have a printed scale on the box or casting, but most high quality models do.
- As we mentioned the 1/18 scale is for larger models. The models look great but you should be aware that you will need a lot of room for storage. Many brands like Solido, Road Legends, Bburago, Revell and many signature models are built in this scale.
- The 1/24 scale is very popular in racing cars from NASCAR, Formula One, etc... and is for highly detailed models but you will eventually need a lot of space too for storage. Used by brands like Revell, Polistil and Bburago among other.
- The 1/43 scale is one of the most popular scales. Gives you still a detailed model and saves you space to keep many cars in the shelf. Many brands like Dinky, Corgi, Matchbox and others made this models the delight of millions around the word. You will eventually find a great variety and assortment of toy cars in this scale and you will also find a wide range of prices.
- The 1/64 scale became very popular in the early 60s with the Matchbox regular wheels. Not as expensive as the Dinky and Corgi in 1/43 scale soon became a total success. Corgi also launched a line of toys in this scale known as Husky and Junior. Later Hot Wheels also introduced models in this scale. This cars have been children´s delight for years.
- Finnaly the 1/87 scale also known as H0 is very popular in German models after WWII - This scale also matches model trains and can be combined in railroad layouts. The early Matchbox built by Moko-Lesney were made also in this scale. Used by brands like Schuco, Marklin, Herpa, Wiking, Roco and many others. Requires a high quality casting to obtain good models.
- Are you starting your own collection? Would you like to expand the one you already have? Choose a scale and go for it... I guarantee that this is a very rewarding hobby. Thank you!
Guide created: 12/02/06 (updated 12/13/07)
Thank you for voting. If your vote meets our 
