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Collectors Club Newsletter


Scales/Sizes

If you're new to models, the scales they are built to may at first seem a bit confusing, but in reality it is quite straightforward.  Scales are expressed as a fraction, such as 1/43 althoug more commonly as a ratioo, such as 1:43 where '1' represents the size of the original subject and '43' represents how many times smaller the model is in relation to that subject.  For example, a car measuring 4 metres long when divided by 43, would result in a model being 9.3cm in length.

All our descriptions of models include an indication to that particular models size.  However, for quick reference, approximate sizes of the most common model types are shown below, but remember, they will vary from model to model depending on the size of the original subject.

 Car Models 
 

The most popular scales for model cars are 1:43 and 1:18.  Of the two, 1:43 is produced by more brands, has the widest choice of subjects and the models usually come complete with their own miniature display case.  Despite their increased size, 1:18 scale models don't necessarily guarantee an improved level of finesse to the detail - it all depends on the brand - but, many do have working features, such as, opening doors, opening bonnets, engine detail, steerable wheels and soft-feel tyres - again depending on brand and also the original subject.

Other scales used for cars models are 1:87 and 1:76, which appeal to railway modellers for use in layouts, 1:24 which is popular in the United States and the large 1:12 scale, for those with enough space.
   

A 1:43 model car compared to the larger 1:18

A 1:43 model car compared to the larger 1:18

Quick size guide for a typical length model car

Scale Length, cm
(approx.)
 Length, inches
(approx.)
1:87 5 2
1:76 5.5 2.25
1:43 10 4
1:24 18 7
1:18 24 10
1:12 36 12

 

 

 Bike Models 
 

Motorcycle models come in five different scales ranging from a compact 1:24 right up to a massive 1:6, with the most popular being 1:24 and 1:12.  Unlike car models, bike models do not gain many features as the scale increases, from 1:18 upwards you will find models with workable suspension and from 1:12 upwards, removable fairings - depending on the model brand and original subject.  The main difference as the scale increases is an improvement in quality and detail.  However, having said that, most 1:18 scale bikes models are not as detailed and well finished as the smaller 1:24 scale models which generally also come complete with their own miniature display case.
   

A 1:24 model bike compared to the larger 1:12

A 1:24 model bike compared to the larger 1:12

Quick size guide for a typical length model bike

Scale Length, cm
(approx.)
 Length, inches
(approx.)
1:24 8 3.25
1:18 11 4.25
1:12 16.5 6.5
1:10 20 8
1:6 33 13

 

 

 Replica Helmets
 

Replica helmets are generally available in two scales, 1:8 and 1:2 or half size.  Helmets in both scales feature opening visors, the 1:8's use a simple pin as a hinge, whereas the 1:2 scale helmets feature an opening mechanism closer to the real thing.  The 1:2 scale helmets additionally feature lining and a chin-strap with realistic buckles but, don't come with a miniature display case as is the case (excuse the pun) with the 1:8 scale helmets.
   

A 1:8 scale helmet is approximately 3.5cm tall

A 1:8 scale helmet is approximately 3.5cm tall

Quick size guide for replica helmets

Scale Height, cm
(approx.)
 Height, inches
(approx.)
1:8 3.5 1.5
1:2 14 5.5