The Most Popular Scale for Diecast Cars, Ranked

Choose the scale you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 3, 2024 06:48
Collectors and enthusiasts often face a challenge in determining the best scale for diecast cars, as preferences can widely vary based on detail, price, and display space. By compiling a ranked list through community input, it becomes significantly easier to see which scales are favored by the majority. This method not only reflects current trends but also aids new collectors in making informed decisions. Through your participation in voting for your preferred diecast car scale, you contribute to a broader understanding of what is valued most in the collector community. This live ranking dynamically changes with new votes, giving a real-time perspective on popular choices. It's a way for your voice to be heard and to see how your preferences compare with those of others in the hobby.

What Is the Most Popular Scale for Diecast Cars?

  1. 1
    67
    votes

    1:18 scale

    Various manufacturers
    The most popular scale for diecast cars due to its large size and high level of detail. It is often used for high-end models and collector's items.
    The 1:18 scale is one of the most popular scales for diecast cars. It provides a detailed and realistic representation of the actual vehicle at a manageable size. This scale is widely collected by enthusiasts and offers a good balance between size and intricacy.
    • Scale: 1:18
    • Size: Approximately 10-11 inches long
    • Detailing: Highly detailed interior and exterior features
    • Materials: Diecast metal body with plastic parts
    • Functionality: Opening doors, hood, and trunk
  2. 2
    46
    votes
    This scale is also popular for diecast cars, and is commonly used for model kits and radio-controlled cars.
    The 1:24 scale is a popular scale used in the diecast car industry. It represents a ratio of 1 unit on the model to 24 units in the real world, providing a detailed representation of the vehicle. This scale offers a balance between size and level of detail, making it a favorite among collectors and model enthusiasts. It allows for precise replication of the car's design while still being large enough to display intricate features.
    • Scale Ratio: 1:24
    • Size: Approximately 7-9 inches in length
    • Level of Detail: Highly detailed exterior and interior features
    • Materials Used: Diecast metal body with plastic or rubber parts
    • Quality: Premium craftsmanship and attention to detail
  3. 3
    29
    votes
    This scale is popular for both collectible and play models, and is often used for model cars of classic and vintage vehicles.
    The 1:43 scale is a popular scale for diecast cars, representing the ratio of 1 unit of measurement on the model to 43 units on the actual car. This scale allows for a relatively detailed representation of the vehicle while still maintaining a practical size.
    • Ratio: 1:43
    • Size: Approximately 4.5 inches long (11.4 cm)
    • Detailing: Moderate to high level of detail
    • Usability: Suitable for display and collection
    • Compatibility: Not compatible with other scales
  4. 4
    24
    votes

    1:64 scale

    Aurora Plastics Corporation
    This scale is commonly used for Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars, and is popular among children and collectors.
    The 1:64 scale is a popular scale for diecast cars that replicates real vehicles at a ratio of 1 inch to 64 inches. It is widely used by collectors and enthusiasts due to its compact size and affordability.
    • Scale Ratio: 1:64
    • Size: Approximately 2.5 to 3 inches in length
    • Detailing: Includes intricate details such as realistic paintwork, interior, and exterior features
    • Materials: Diecast metal body with plastic parts for added durability and authenticity
    • Variety: Large selection of different car models and brands available in this scale
  5. 5
    12
    votes
    This scale is popular for both collectible and play models, and is often used for model cars of sports and racing vehicles.
    The 1:32 scale is a popular scale for diecast cars that offers a well-balanced level of detail and size. It allows for intricate design and realistic features while remaining relatively compact. This scale is widely appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
    • Scale: 1:32
    • Size: Approximately 5-6 inches in length
    • Detailing: Intricate and realistic
    • Quality: Highly detailed and well-made
    • Materials: Diecast metal body with plastic components
  6. 6
    13
    votes
    This scale is commonly used for construction equipment and trucks, and is popular among collectors of these types of vehicles.
    The 1:50 scale is a widely used scale for diecast car models. It is commonly used by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate highly detailed replicas of real cars. In this scale, the model cars are 1/50th the size of the actual vehicles.
    • Scale: 1:50
    • Size: Approximately 2-4 inches in length
    • Detailing: Highly detailed with intricate features
    • Material: Usually made from diecast metal with some plastic parts
    • Realism: Accurate representation of real cars
  7. 7
    6
    votes
    This scale is commonly used for model trains and accessories, and is also used for some diecast cars and trucks.
    The 1:87 scale, also known as HO scale, is a popular scale for diecast cars that allows collectors and enthusiasts to replicate real-life vehicles in a smaller size. It offers great detail and realism while still being compact enough to fit in limited display spaces.
    • Scale: 1:87
    • Size: approximately 2.5 to 3 inches long
    • Ratio: 1 unit on the model represents 87 units in real life
    • Accuracy: high level of accuracy and detailing
    • Compatibility: compatible with HO scale model trains and dioramas
  8. 8
    3
    votes

    1:12 scale

    Various manufacturers
    This scale is used for larger, more detailed models of classic and vintage cars, and is popular among collectors.
    The 1:12 scale is a popular scale for diecast cars that represents a ratio of 1 unit of measurement on the model to 12 units in real life. It is known for its larger size, allowing for intricate details and a more realistic appearance.
    • Size: Average length of the model is around 12 inches (30 cm)
    • Detailing: High level of detailing with precise engine and interior components
    • Material: Made of high-quality diecast metal and plastic parts
    • Functionality: Features opening doors, hoods, and trunks, as well as steerable wheels
    • Weight: Typically weighs between 2-4 pounds (0.9-1.8 kg)
  9. 9
    5
    votes
    This scale is commonly used for radio-controlled cars and trucks, and is also used for some diecast models.
    The 1:16 scale is a popular scale for diecast cars, representing a size ratio of 1 unit on the model to 16 units in real life. This scale allows for detailed and accurate replicas of vehicles in a more compact size compared to larger scales.
    • Size Ratio: 1:16
    • Detailing: Highly detailed interiors and exterior features
    • Material: Diecast metal body with plastic parts
    • Size: Approximately 11-12 inches in length
    • Functionality: Some models may have functional doors, hoods, or trunks
  10. 10
    8
    votes
    This scale is used for large, highly detailed models of classic and vintage cars, and is popular among collectors.
    The 1:6 scale is a commonly used scale for diecast cars, which represents that each unit of measurement on the model car represents six units of measurement on the actual car. This scale is known for its larger size and increased level of detail compared to smaller scales.
    • Scale Ratio: 1:6
    • Size: Approximately 14-20 inches in length
    • Level of Detail: High
    • Material: Diecast metal with plastic parts
    • Weight: Varies depending on the model, typically between 2-5 pounds

Missing your favorite scale?

Graphs
Discussion

Ranking factors for popular scale

  1. Scale size
    The scale size is a significant factor in determining the popularity of diecast cars. Common scales include 1:12, 1:18, 1:24, 1:32, 1:43, and 1:64. Some collectors prefer larger scales, while others prefer smaller scales due to space constraints or price differences.
  2. Detail and accuracy
    The level of detail, realism, and accuracy of the diecast car is crucial in rating its popularity. Collectors often value models that accurately replicate the features and specifications of the original vehicle, including the interior, exterior, wheels, and engine.
  3. Brand reputation
    The brand producing the diecast cars plays a significant role in their popularity. Some collectors prefer specific manufacturers due to their reputation for producing high-quality, accurate, and detailed models.
  4. Availability and rarity
    Diecast cars that are difficult to find or are released in limited editions often become more popular due to their rarity and exclusivity. This can lead to an increase in demand and higher prices for these models.
  5. Price
    The cost of the diecast car is an essential factor for collectors. Some may be willing to pay a premium for higher-quality, limited edition models, while others may prefer more affordable options.
  6. Historical significance and desirability of the real vehicle
    The popularity of a diecast car can be greatly influenced by the significance and desirability of the actual vehicle it represents. Cars with a rich history, iconic design, or cultural impact often have a higher demand for their diecast counterparts.
  7. Licensing and collaborations
    Diecast cars that are produced in collaboration with automobile manufacturers or carry an official license often have an advantage in terms of authenticity and accuracy. This can lead to increased interest and popularity among collectors.
  8. Customizability and accessories
    The ability to customize diecast cars or add accessories may impact their popularity. Some collectors seek out models with interchangeable parts, decals, or additional features that can be modified to create unique versions or dioramas.
  9. Collectible series and themes
    Diecast cars that are part of a collectible series or have a thematic connection (e.g., movie/TV show tie-ins, racing liveries, etc.) can influence their popularity among collectors who are drawn to that particular theme or are looking to complete a set.
  10. Community engagement and collector support
    The overall popularity of a diecast car can be heavily influenced by the community of collectors and enthusiasts. Online forums, social media groups, and collector events can help promote the appeal of specific diecast cars and contribute to their continued popularity.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular scale for diecast cars. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or scale is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 3400 views
  • 214 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each scale once every 24 hours. The rank of each scale is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular scale for diecast cars

Diecast cars have been a popular collectible item for decades, with enthusiasts constantly seeking out the latest and greatest models to add to their collections. One important aspect of diecast cars is the scale at which they are produced, as this determines their size and level of detail. The most popular scale for diecast cars is 1:18, which is often seen as the perfect balance between size and detail. However, there are also many collectors who prefer smaller scales such as 1:43 or 1:64, as these allow for more models to be displayed in a smaller space. Ultimately, the choice of scale comes down to personal preference and the specific type of collection that a collector is looking to build.

Share this article