Scale Guide

Diecast cars come in different scales, and each scale represents the ratio between the model and the actual car.

Here’s an approximate size for common diecast car scales:

These are approximate dimensions, as the actual size can vary slightly depending on the make and model of the car.

1:87 Scale (HO Scale):

Commonly used for train models, but also found in small diecast cars. The models are around 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm) long. I only sell a small number of 1:87 cars by Schuco and Johnny Lightning.

1:76 Scale:

Often used for model railway cars here in the UK. Typically around 2.25 inches (5.7 cm) long. At the time of writing this, I had a couple of Tiny 1:76 models in stock.

1:64 Scale (S Scale):

This is the scale we sell the most. The models are around 3 inches (7.5cm) long, but the accuracy depends on the brand and make/model.

Auto World, Greenlight, Inno 64, M2 Machines, Mini GT, Para64 and Tarmac Works tend to be true 1:64 scale. Other brands are hit and miss.

Almost all the brands I sell are sold because they make 1:64 scale cars.

1:43 Scale:

This scale has always been popular in the UK. The models are usually about 4.5 inches (11.5 cm) long, highly detailed and generally come in an acrylic case.

The main brands of 1:43 models I sell are by Greenlight and Tarmac Works, but I have bits and pieces from other brands. as well as some figures by Cartrix.

1:24 Scale:

The models are around 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18cm) long, depending on the brand and make. When I wrote this, I only stocked Greenlight. M2 Machines and a few Jada 1:24 Scale models.

1:18 Scale:

This is a very popular scale for detailed, high-quality models. Roughly 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm) long, but the sizes will vary more due to their size, and the relative differences between an Austin Mini and Ford F150.

I sell 1:18 models by Auto World, Greenlight, plus a couple from Almost Real, Ignition Models and KK Scale.