Diecast Model Cars Are For Big Kids Too

by

chickie maxwell

Race fans and diecast hot-rod collecting are natural partners. Whether race fans ever get the opportunity to actually meet their favorite drivers, or see their cars up close, fans can still collect model cars representing the real race cars. Diecast models are especially desirable, as they are small scale replicas of the genuine hot-rods.

What Are Diecast Model Cars?

Diecast model cars made their initial appearance in the early to mid 20th century, as manufacturers created molds or dies for metal alloys, in order to cast replicas of popular hot-rods and other vehicles. Matchbox models and Hot Wheels were some of the early favorites in the 1960s and 1970s. Diecast models became increasingly popular as details improved on the models and NASCAR racing gained ever increasing numbers of fans in the 1990s.

What Types and Sizes of Diecast Models are Available?

Diecast models exist in numerous types and sizes. They range from model cars and trucks, to planes and helicopters, to motorcycles, trains, boats, and farm and construction equipment. Racing vehicles and hot-rods seem to be the most popular among collectors of diecast model cars. Sizes also vary, from miniatures only about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in length, to larger models up to 14 or 15 inches long. These sizes are available in measurements known as scales, which are proportional representations in keeping with the full-size dimensions of actual vehicles.

What Are the Scales of Diecast Models?

There more than a dozen scales used for various diecast models, but the most common scales for model cars and hot-rods are as follows:

1:12–This scale represents a model 1/12th the size of the original vehicle.

1:18–This scale represents a model 1/18th the size of the original vehicle.

1:24–This scale represents a model 1/24th the size of the original vehicle.

1:64–This scale represents a model 1/64th the size of the original vehicle.

1:128–This scale represents a model 1/128th the size of the original vehicle.

Ironically, as the scale number increases, the model vehicle size decreases. For instance, considering race cars specifically, a 1:12 diecast model car may measure about 14 inches in length; a 1:18 model may measure about 12 inches in length; a 1:24 diecast model may measure about 8 inches in length; a 1:64 model may measure about 3 inches in length; and a 1:128 model may measure about 1 inch in length.

Other considerations for collectors of diecast models in regard to scale are available investment funds and display space. Obviously, the larger the model cars are, the more funds and space you will need to purchase and display them. Some model car collectors prefer to keep their models in uniform scales, while other collectors like to have assorted sizes of model cars. Whatever your choices are, showcase those diecast models proudly, but resist the urge to “play” with them if you want to increase their value over time.

So whether you’re a fan of Dale Earnhardt Junior or Mark Martin in the NASCAR Series, Danica Patrick or Elio Castroneves in the IndyCar Series, Todd Bodine or Ron Hornaday in the Camping World Truck Series, or any other driver in any racing series, you’re sure to find diecast models representing their vehicles, along with hot-rod model cars of numerous race car drivers. Visit Diecast Models Today! Visit Diecast Models Today!

Please Visit Our Online Mall

Article Source:

Diecast Model Cars Are For Big Kids Too

byAlma Abell

When you are looking to purchase a used car, you are looking for that one automobile that is the perfect option for you. Unlike when you buy from the new lot, where one model is the same as the others on the lot, things get more complex when it comes to the used car lot. There could be two cars of the same make and/or model sitting next to each other on the lot; while they may look similar, there may be different issues with the engine, and with the interior of the car. With this in mind, you can’t just buy a car because it is a certain brand, at least not based solely on that basic information. You need to take the time to look deeply into each car that you consider when you are visiting Used Auto Dealers in Tucson. It’s not just about the way that the car outwardly looks; it is about what it will give you over time.

The best way to get information on a specific car that you are looking at on the used car lot is to ask for it. It is incredibly easy to get a full history on each car that you are considering, and Used Auto Dealers in Tucson should be able to get it for you in a matter of minutes when you ask for it. This information will cover any work that has been done on the car, as well as any damage that may be well covered up. In addition, you need to give the car a thorough visual inspection, and take it out for an intensive test drive.

While you need to pay more attention to the individual car than the make and model, the name on the front of the car does mean something. Toyota is known for producing great new cars that end up becoming great used cars down the road. Because you want a car that was built for the long term, Used Toyotas in Tucson from a place like Craycroft Auto Sales should be an option that you are going to want to consider in your search.