Once bitten by the bug for collecting scale model cars, a growing passion is bound to develop. These miniature replicas allow automobile aficionados to collect affordable versions of their favorite vehicles. Collectors can purchase one readymade or use kits to put one together on their own.

Normally, these models are produced at a particular scale to the normal size of the original. They length is about ten to twelve inches. This size makes it easy to keep them in a book shelf or a display case. Limited or vintage editions have become investments with appreciating value.

These replicas have a long pedigree that goes back to the beginnings of the era when automobiles emerged. German manufacturers began production of tinplate samples at the start of the 20th century. The Tinplate car was larger then what is currently offered and could be moved using different mechanisms. Their intended market was offspring of well heeled parents. Europeans manufacturers continued to make this variant after the first World War.

Smaller and more affordable cars began being sold in the early 1900s, as well. By 1911, an American toy company was an early entrant with a 1.43 scale type. From the 1960s onwards, the smaller scaled miniatures began to dominate the market. Adults grew to become a major segment of the market by the 1990s.

Onwards from this period, more expensive actualized detailed models of better quality became an established segment of the industry. The 1.43 and1.18 sizes became most popular offerings in the adult segment. In the 1.43 scale there is a large variety presently available. But, the 1.18 variant remains a best-seller due to its high quality of detail.

Certainly, the older vintage cars that were originally intended for children, can go for a high price, if they are rare and in mint condition. For instance, in 2008 a prewar van that originally cost 4 shillings was purchased for 19,975 pounds. This was by then the highest price for a single sample. A set of six vans was purchased for 35,000 pounds by a collector. As Model Collector magazine experts have noted, the most coveted items have fetched two or three times their estimated price at auctions. The oldest bring the highest prices, as few remain without blemishes. However, distinctive samples may also carry high values.

As thousands of replicas have been produced over the years, guidebooks can be an essential help in sorting through the confusion. Collectors Associations are an available source for seeking trading advice and magazines are also a useful tool. Experienced advice is all the more useful since the unscrupulous are taking advantage of novice investors by selling restorations and frauds.

A restored item has a lower value. These items and frauds need expertise that the inexperienced lack. Novices should seek guidance, until they become experts in evaluation themselves. For them it is also safer to acquire an item in unblemished condition that comes with its original packaging. By relying on a seller with a trusted record they have insurance against risk. It is wise to avoid a risky alternative. Novice should avoid items that have no documentation and are said to be rare offerings. Knowledgeable experts would not fall for such a ploy. By collecting scale model cars, a collector understands why so many find enjoyment in the keeping of a treasured item.