Choose your next model car by starting with the space you have, the car you want and the exact version you collect. This guide explains 1/18, 1/43 and 1/12 scales, then gives you a checklist for comparing listings at Sozu Model Cars.
What do model car scales mean?
A scale describes the relationship between a model and the full-size vehicle. A 1/18 model is approximately one eighteenth of the original car's dimensions. For the same vehicle, a smaller denominator means a larger model: 1/12 is larger than 1/18, and 1/18 is larger than 1/43.
As an illustration, a full-size car measuring 4.5 meters long would be approximately 37.5 cm (14.8 inches) at 1/12 scale, 25 cm (9.8 inches) at 1/18 scale and 10.5 cm (4.1 inches) at 1/43 scale. These are calculated examples, not the measurements of a particular product. Bases, cases and packaging require extra space.
1/18 scale: a larger display model
Consider 1/18 when you want a model to be a prominent part of a shelf or display. Allow enough room around it to view the front, sides and rear. If opening doors, steering or engine access matter to you, check the specific product information; scale alone does not tell you whether those features are present.
1/43 scale: more vehicles in a smaller space
Consider 1/43 when you want to display several vehicles together or have limited shelf space. Keeping models of the same scale together makes it easier to compare their relative sizes. For racing collections, confirm the event, year, driver, race number and livery as well as the car itself.
1/12 scale: plan the display space first
Consider 1/12 for a larger centerpiece. Measure the usable width, depth and height of your display before ordering, and check whether a base or case is included. Exact dimensions and construction vary by model, so ask us about anything the listing does not specify.
How to compare two listings
- Match the manufacturer and reference. Start with the model maker and model number. Similar car names can describe different releases.
- Check the scale and vehicle version. Confirm the generation, trim, body style and model year where stated.
- Compare the color or racing specification. A different finish, livery, driver or race number can make it a different collectible.
- Read the construction and feature details. Do not assume that all models from one brand have the same materials or opening features.
- Review condition and included items. Read the description and photographs together. Check packaging, bases, cases and accessories rather than assuming they are included.
- Check fulfillment details. Review the shipping origin, processing estimate and checkout charges. Most of our products ship from Japan; items identified as In Stock in USA normally ship from a U.S. fulfillment location.
Find a model by brand
Explore AUTOart, Kyosho, Ignition Model, Make Up EIDOLON, VISION and IDEA, or BBR Models. For a wider selection, browse all model cars.
Before you order
Check our Shipping Policy and Return and Refund Policy before purchase. For questions about a particular model, contact us with its manufacturer, model number or product link so we can help you confirm the details.