Road Cars

1How long does it take to make a model from initial thought to finished product? Top

Depending on the scale and complexity this can be anything from 4-12 months.

2What sort of quantities are made in the production run of 1:43rd scale diecast models? Top

Nowadays many manufacturers make only one run of any given model to keep down inventory and also to allow them to continue with their ever increasing ranges.

This is why it is important to secure your desired models as you see them available. Some pieces depicting a special event may be as low as 1000 models worldwide

3Why should I collect diecast model cars? Top

Diecast models allow you to have the car of your dreams at a fraction of the cost of the real thing. No maintenance, registration, less 'garaging' space required and no likelihood of damage from fellow motorists and zero fuel bills. Added to this you models do not depreciate like real cars.aaaaa

Your models can be a true investment appreciating better than many other items.

4If my models are to be an investment, how are they best maintained. Top

Keep all packaging in perfect condition, any original advertising material and of course keep the model complete with its original parts, dust free and preferably in a locked glass fronted display cabinet. For people like us who live in sunny climates, ensure that not too much daylight falls onto your cabinet or you will experience fading on one side of your model. Of course you do not let little folk play with your models in the sandpit or anywhere else. They are not children's toys.

5What does the scale 1:43, 1:18 etc. mean? Top

This really means 1 in 43 or 1 in 18 or whatever scale is being referred to. This means basically that it the model should be enlarged 43 or 18 times (depending on the scale) to reach the full size. The bigger the number, the smaller the model.

6What is the collectability of different scales of models? Top

Different scales have different features and collectability.1:24 is considered the "Toy" size, but some specialist manufacturers do models in this scale as well.

1:43 is the traditional collector scale as of course many models in this scale can be displayed in the collection. This scale does not usually have opening or moving parts.

1:18 is fast becoming a sought after scale in many places as there is more detail, opening doors, bonnets and boots, operating steering, engine detail.

1:12 and 1:8 are even greater detail (and price). These are for the serious collector and make fantastic centrepieces to a display. They are also coveted by companies to display in corporate offices.

1:64 and 1:87 is popular in the US and Europe respectively.

7Why is a small 1:43rd scale model usually more expensive than the larger 1:18th scale? Top

More exacting detail is required for the 1:43rd, and basically, precision costs money. Also, most 1:18th subjects are models that can be made in the millions and so the unit cost per piece comes down.

8How can I be sure that a "Limited Edition" is in fact limited? Top

There is only ONE way to tell.

Either the model has to be numbered or there needs to be a numbered Certificate with each model.

Vitesse Group does this now on all its models. Biante has and always will include a certificate.

There is NO other way of knowing for sure.

9Why do some cars seem to get modelled by everyone at once? Top

They are usually popular models that have had some sort of licence problem, which, once lifted, results in a wave of models coming out together.