Model car scales, the guide

Model car scales are indicated at the time of purchase, but it can be difficult to associate a size in centimetres with each scale, or to remember which is the smallest, for example. So here's a quick guide to help you understand the scales on model cars!

The 6 scales of model cars

1/64

This is the smallest scale, corresponding to a length of around 7.5 centimetres. Reproductions in 1/64 scale, also known as 3inches, are reminiscent of the little cars of childhood, handy to take everywhere. But their modest size doesn't mean they're devoid of detail! The interior, wheels and radiator grille are all reproduced to perfection, as demonstrated by this sublime Porsche Singer 911 (964), in a limited edition of just 700!

Although this is a little rarer, 1/64 scale miniatures sometimes have opening parts. Doors, boot and bonnet open to reveal a sublime engine, a well-kept interior or a spacious boot. AN Model Cars brings you the Nissan GT-R (R33) made by Ignition Model. 

1/43 

With models measuring 10 cm, the 1/43 scale is undoubtedly, the most appreciated and prized by collectors. In fact, this was the size of the first miniature cars, which enjoyed a meteoric rise at the beginning of the XXᵉ century. Space-saving and inexpensive, 1/43 model cars were children's favourite toys at the time. Today, other occupations have replaced them, however, it is collectors who snatch up these miniatures today.

Made from resin or metal, they are impeccably finished. A very wide choice of vehicles in this scale is available from many manufacturers, as this is the mythical size of miniature cars.

1/24 

A 1/24 scale model car measures approximately 17 centimetres. Straddling the line between small and more realistic models, 1/24 scale is particularly popular in the United States! It's not a range that is very popular with collectors, and the choice is fairly limited. But the reproductions that do exist are ultra-realistic. Perhaps in a few years' time we'll see more brands faithfully reproduced in this scale?

1/18 

Totally suited to detail enthusiasts, the 1/18 scale reproduces a miniature 18 times smaller than the original, i.e. around 25 centimetres. It's a widely available size, so you can choose from an infinite range. Metal and resin are often used, but composite remains the material of choice for 1/18 model cars. Many models feature highly detailed opening parts. The advantage of 1/18 scale is that you can buy high-quality, realistic models on a tight or unlimited budget.

 1/12 

This is not a very common scale, so the choice is fairly limited. The 1/12 scale is equivalent to a model measuring around 35 centimetres. That's quite a lot, and while it allows you to admire the quality of the finish and details, it's also a fairly substantial budget! AN Model Cars, your distributor of collectible miniatures, offers you a selection of 1/12 models in ultra-limited editions of just 212! This is the case of the magnificent Ferrari 812 Competizione, which is screamingly realistic. If you can't afford the real thing, you can at least buy this little gem and soak up its elegance and ferocity.

1/8 

Of all the miniature car scales, this is the largest. Count on around 60 centimetres for a reproduction of this scale! This size means you can really appreciate every detail of the vehicle, almost as if it were a life-size model. 1/8 scale miniatures generally have opening parts that reveal many mechanical features. However, these vehicles are fairly expensive to buy, and it's best to have the space to display them!

How do you calculate the size of a 1/18 scale car?

A scale of 1/18 means that 1 cm of the model corresponds to 18 centimetres of the full-size car. To obtain the measurements, simply divide the dimensions of the full-size car by 18. For example, a city car is 400 cm long and 180 cm wide:

• 400 / 18 = 22,2 cm 
• 180 / 18 = 10 cm

The miniature is therefore 22.2 cm long and 10 cm wide. This is the end of the scale guide for model cars! From now on, you'll know all about the dimensions of your reproductions! We'll be back soon with new tips and more news!