Formula 1

1Which is the most popular scale for Formula 1 collectors? Top

Some collectors like to get the whole grid for any one year, and so for both space and cost reasons, they collect 1:43 scale models. Others just follow a particular driver or team, in which case the larger 1:18 scale may appeal.

It would also be fair to say that there is a larger variety of F1 model cars available in the smaller 1:43 scale.

The Biante website features a large range of F1 models manufactured by Minichamps, with a smaller variety from other manufacturers also available.

2Why do Formula 1 cars not appear until about August of each year? Top

With the high levels of technology and secrecy in Formula 1 these days, the model makers do not get to see the final car or drawings until well into the season. Whilst some cars are measured and photographed at the season-opening Grand Prix, currently in Melbourne, Australia, there are often many more changes put into effect from then until around the time of the traditional Monaco GP in May of each year. It is usually then that the tooling can begin.

3Is it possible to get model cars from each year of Formula 1, ie from 1950 to today? Top

Most manufacturers concentrate on the current season or immediate past season cars at any one time. However, many manufacturers also do retrospective models for certain types of historical F1 cars, or for particular drivers or teams.

The now defunct Vitesse Group commenced a licensed history of Ferrari F1 collection in the 1990s which has now been resurrected by IXO Models - this is the 1:43 scale La Storia Collection. The late Ayrton Senna and his career cars are subject to a collection by Minichamps in both 1:43 and 1:18 scales. And, CMC is turning out some beautifully detailed 1:18 scale models of F1 cars from the 1950s.

4Why do Formula 1 and other competition model cars cost more than standard road car models? Top

Extra costs in manufacture are incurred for things like roll cages and other specialised additions, decals or tampo printing for body decoration logos and, of course, additional license fees can be a factor in respect of teams, sponsors and drivers.

5How many Formula 1 cars of each team are made each year? Top

That information is highly secret, but an estimate for the popular (or winning) teams, is around 300,000 pieces worldwide. The teams themselves take some, as do the major sponsors. With the rest of the models spread throughout the world, some can be quite difficult to find. But that is the fun of collecting.

6Besides the cars, can you get models of associated items? Top

In the past, driver figurines were produced by Minichamps, but unfortunately these items no longer feature in their current catalogue. Similarly, Minichamps have on occasion in the past made replica driver helmets.

Another variation to buying just a single static car is in the pitstop diorama selectively produced by Minichamps. These are usually available as a complete set in 1:43 scale, or with various components available in separate sets in both 1:43 and 1:18 scale.

Also, the F1 World Championship series Safety Cars and Medical Cars are sometimes replicated by various manufacturers as model cars in both 1:43 and 1:18 scales.

7What is a 'Show Car'? Top

This is a model of a team's pre-season promotional car. Most teams arrange functions whereby new drivers and sponsors are introduced - and the new team livery is usually depicted on last season's car.

The 'show car' model cars are amongst the most collectable of Formula 1 models, bearing in mind that these are usually Limited Edition items of only 1,000 to 2,000 models produced worldwide.

8Can team and driver clothing be obtained by Formula 1 fans? Top

The Biante website carries only product produced by our associated model car manufacturers and as such, clothing items usually don't feature.

Most specialist model shops who deal heavily in F1 models usually diversify their product range by including rack space for team gear, replica helmets, and other paraphernalia.

And, if you check out the fan club websites for any of the drivers, you will find enough gear for sale there to keep you broke!!