THE DIECAST DREAM CAR GARAGE - APRIL 2024: THREE MODELS TO GET YOU STARTED

So, you've decided to dive into the world of scale model car collecting—great choice! This hobby is not only fun and rewarding but also allows you to build a dream garage in miniature form. However, with countless brands, models, and sizes to choose from, getting started can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in.

Each month, we’ll cut through the clutter and highlight three standout models (one in each of the key scales we specialize in at Model Citizen Diecast) to help you build a world-class collection. To kick things off, we’re featuring three legendary names in diecast collecting—Ferrari, Nissan Skyline, and Porsche. If you’re a fan of these automotive icons and looking to start your collection, read on.



1:18 SCALE: 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, diecast metal, by Kyosho. 

• Material: Diecast metal
• Features: Opening parts
  Simply put, the Ferrari 250 GTO is one of the most desirable collector cars ever made. With only 36 units produced, this 1960s racing legend helped Ferrari dominate the FIA GT Championship for three years straight. Today, real 250 GTOs trade for over $50 million, making them a dream purchase for all but the wealthiest collectors.

For diecast enthusiasts, Kyosho’s 1:18-scale model offers the perfect way to own this legend in miniature form. The curvaceous body is beautifully sculpted, while the opening hood reveals an intricately detailed engine with wired and plumbed components. Inside, the model features an iconic gated shifter and diamond-tufted parcel shelf, capturing the essence of the real car. If you’re building a Ferrari collection, this masterpiece is the perfect place to start. $360

1:43 SCALE – 1995 NISMO 400R by Kyosho

• Material: Resin
• Features: Highly detailed trim and wheels
  Just like in the full-size collector world, the JDM scene is the fastest-growing segment in scale model collecting. At the heart of this movement is the Nissan Skyline GT-R, one of the most revered Japanese performance cars of all time. Among the rarest and most coveted variants is the NISMO 400R, based on the R33 Skyline GT-R. With only 44 ever built, this high-performance machine boasted a larger engine and aerodynamic upgrades, pushing its top speed to nearly 190 mph.

For model collectors, Kyosho’s 1:43-scale resin replica brings the 400R to life with exceptional accuracy. Available in red or yellow, this model features meticulously crafted details, from the aggressive front fascia to the signature rear wing and LM-GT1 wheels. If you’re starting a JDM-focused collection, this is a must-have. $85

1:64 SCALE – 1963 Porsche 901 by Mini GT

• Material: Diecast metal
• Features: Intricate trim details
  The Porsche 911 isn’t just the greatest sports car of all time—it’s one of the most influential cars in history. With a lineage spanning six decades, it’s an essential piece of any model car collection. And what better way to start than with the very first prototype?

Mini GT’s 1:64-scale Porsche 901 faithfully replicates the original 1963 model—before Porsche was forced to change the name due to a trademark dispute with Peugeot. Despite its compact size, this model is packed with fine details, including tiny wiper blades and a precisely cut grille that looks straight out of a full-size restoration. For collectors looking to build a Porsche lineup in the increasingly popular 1:64 scale, this is the ideal foundation. $17

No matter which scale you prefer, these three models represent the best of what diecast collecting has to offer. Start your dream garage today!

Tags: 1:18 Scale, 1:43 Scale, 1:64 Scale, Car Enthusiasts, Ferrari, Kyosho, Mini GT, Nissan, Porsche