Model Car Buying Guide: Choose the Right Model

A great addition to a collection starts with the right version of the car. Use this checklist to compare listings, avoid a scale or specification mismatch, and choose a model you will enjoy displaying.

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1. Start with the car, then choose the model maker

The car brand and model manufacturer are different details. A Porsche model might be made by AUTOart, Make Up, Kyosho or another manufacturer. First choose your car and generation; then compare the manufacturer's reference, scale, finish and features. A similar product name does not always mean an identical model.

Explore Porsche, Ferrari, Nissan Skyline or Lamborghini model cars.

Read the maker, reference and vehicle separately

Use these listing examples to separate the model maker from the vehicle name:

• EIDOLON EML045E: EIDOLON is the model maker, EML045E is the reference, Porsche 918 Spyder is the vehicle, and 1/18 is the scale. This reference is listed in Racing Yellow.
• Ignition Model IG3202: Ignition Model is the model maker, IG3202 is the reference, Eunos Roadster NA is the vehicle, and 1/18 is the scale. This reference is listed in Silver.
• Spark FS48: Spark is the model maker, FS48 is the reference, AlphaTauri AT04 is the vehicle, and 1/43 is the scale. This listing identifies the 2023 USA GP version with race number 22.

Keep the complete reference, including any letter suffix, when searching or asking a question. Check the exact product page for current availability and included items. Use our manufacturer-reference finder or browse by vehicle and scale.

Interested in unusual automotive designs? Explore our AutoCult & Avenue43 1/43 buying guide to compare three references and the details to check before ordering.

2. Check the space on your shelf

1/18, 1/43 and 1/12 describe the model's size relative to the full-size car. For the same car, 1/12 is larger than 1/18, and 1/43 is smaller. Allow extra room for a display base or case; these are not necessarily included. Our model car scale guide explains how to estimate dimensions.

3. Match the exact version

• Generation and body style: check the car's generation, year and road or racing version.
• Color and wheels: compare the written specification with the product photos, including stripes and wheel finish.
• Race details: match the event, year, driver and car number where stated.
• Manufacturer reference: use the SKU or reference number to distinguish close variants.
• Edition details: check the specific listing for any stated edition size; an edition size is not the number currently in stock.

4. Confirm construction and included items

Check whether the specific model is described as diecast, resin or composite, and whether opening parts are explicitly stated. Do not assume doors, a hood or an engine cover open based on scale, price or manufacturer alone. Confirm the box, base, display case and accessories shown or described. If a detail is unclear, contact us with the product link and model reference before ordering.

Material, opening parts and display items: compare separately

• Resin, diecast or composite: the stated material describes construction. It does not by itself confirm opening doors, a bonnet or an engine cover.
• Visible engine versus opening engine cover: a visible engine in a photo is not proof that a panel opens. Check the exact reference and written specification.
• Base versus display case: a mounting base and a transparent cover are separate items. Confirm which are included and allow room for both.
• Vehicle year versus model release: a year in the vehicle name can refer to the full-size car or race, rather than the release date of the scale model.
• Box and accessories: check the stated packaging condition and included items. A manufacturer photo is not evidence of the condition of an individual box.

Ready-made model or assembly kit?

Check whether the listing describes a finished model or a Model Kit. For a kit, confirm whether assembly or painting is required and whether tools, paint or adhesive are included. A finished-model photograph does not mean the item arrives assembled. Match the written contents and requirements to the exact reference, especially when choosing a gift. If anything is unclear, ask us with the product link and reference before ordering.

5. Set a budget for the whole order

Start with model-car listings currently available to buy and use the Price filter to compare options within your product budget. A price filter covers the product price only. Review the shipping cost and any taxes or other applicable charges shown at checkout before payment.

Shipping origin can vary by item. The In Stock in USA collection identifies selected U.S.-stocked items; it does not describe the shipping origin of the whole catalog. Read our Shipping Policy for delivery information.

6. Buying a gift or adding to an existing collection?

For a gift, ask which car, scale and color the recipient collects. A model in their preferred scale is easier to display alongside their existing collection. Before ordering, confirm whether they already own the same manufacturer reference. For your own collection, compare the new model with the space and subjects you already display.

Cannot find or buy the model you want?

Start with the exact manufacturer reference in our catalog search. Check the scale, color and vehicle version in each result; similar names or photos may refer to a different release.

If a listing is unavailable, browse model-car listings currently available to buy, or explore by vehicle, scale and manufacturer. An alternative may differ in material, opening features, livery or included display items. Compare those details before choosing.

For help finding a particular version, contact us with the product link and manufacturer reference. An unavailable listing does not confirm that a model is discontinued or that it will be restocked. Availability can change; check the product page again before ordering.

Before you place the order

Recheck the reference, quantity, delivery address and checkout total. Review the Return & Refund Policy, including the limited return conditions and reporting deadline. Ask about any unresolved product detail before completing payment.

Explore model cars by car, scale and budget · Ask a product question