Cart
0
If you’ve ever watched a child roll a tiny car across the floor and make engine sounds under their breath, you already know the magic; and if you’ve ever seen an adult pause at a glass shelf to admire a perfectly scaled Ferrari, you know it never quite leaves us. A quick step back helps set the scene: die-cast cars took off in the UK in the 1930s with Dinky Toys, then grew into household names like Matchbox and beyond, proof that small, well-made models can capture big feelings for decades.
Now, because choice can be overwhelming, here’s a simple guide that shows you how to pick a great model, rounds up ten stand-out diecasts you can buy right now, and finishes with easy care tips, so your gift (or new pride and joy) looks the part for years. Along the way, we’ll point you to Big Boy Toys US, a hobby shop with a wide range across scales and brands, plus straightforward shipping (including international).
How to Choose the Perfect Diecast Car
To make a smart pick, it helps to start with size, because scale shapes everything from shelf space to play value.
Scale matters: 1:18 models are large and display-ready, often around 24–30 cm long with lots of working bits; 1:24 sits neatly on a bookshelf; 1:43 is compact for tight spaces; and 1:64 (Hot Wheels/Matchbox-sized) is pocket-friendly and great for kids and casual collecting. Put differently, the bigger the first number’s denominator, the smaller the car.
Material & detail: Most quality models use a die-cast metal body with plastic detail parts. Features like opening doors, bonnets (hoods), tailgates/boots, steerable wheels and rubber tyres add a lot of value and tactile joy, use the product description to check exactly what moves.
Age appropriateness:. For younger children, sturdy 1:64 or 1:24 models meant for play are safer choices; very detailed 1:18s are better on a shelf. As a rule, toys with small parts aren’t for kids under-three, so it's advisable to scan the age label and warnings before you buy.
Exclusive perks at Big Boy Toys US: You can browse a broad mix of brands and scales in one place, watch product videos on their YouTube channel for real-world looks, and use their fast-shipping options (free continental US shipping over $75; international shipping available, customs/duties may apply). That combination helps you choose with confidence and get gifts delivered on time.
The Top 10 Best Diecast Cars of the Year
Below are ten lively, gift-ready picks. Each one notes its scale, why it stands out, and who it suits.
1) 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (Maisto) — 1:18
-
Opening bonnet/doors/boot, steerable wheels, detailed engine and interior.
-
Bold presence for shelves; great value, big-scale American muscle.
-
Best for: Teens and adults who like hands-on features and classic American muscle.
2) Porsche 911 Porsche RWB 964 GT Wing — 1:64
-
Realistic appearance, chrome gold finish, clean GT3 lines done right.
-
A modern classic that balances realism and price neatly.
-
Best for: Display-first buyers who still want playable features.
3) Mercedes Benz G500 4X4 — 1:18
-
Has opening 4 doors, hood and rear gate, has steerable wheels, detailed interior, exterior and engine compartment.
-
A refined, premium display model with presence.
-
Best for: Adults who love modern luxury trucks.
4) Bugatti Veyron Super Sport — 1:64
-
Removable engine cover, has adjustable wing; intricate details of the legendary W16 powerplant.
-
Attractive black and orange colour that radiates power
-
Best for: Long-term collectors building a halo Bugatti line-up.
5) Bentley Flying Spur Limited Edition — 1:64
-
Die-cast metal body and chassis, detailed interior & exterior, real rubber tires.
-
Glamour in a serious, shelf-worthy piece.
-
Best for: Adult collectors chasing detail.
6) 1959 Plymouth Savoy Sedan — 1:87
-
Detailed interior & exterior, comes in plastic display showcase, does not have any openings.
-
A beautiful classic piece
-
Best for: Nostalgic and passionate collectors.
7) 1955 Cadillac Fleetwood Series 60 ("The Godfather") — 1:24
-
Detailed interior & exterior, opening front doors, real rubber tires.
-
Flaunts the authentic movie decoration.
-
Best for: Trend-aware collectors wanting the best cars.
8) 1995 Nissan Skyline GT-R (BCNR33) "Fast & Furious" Series — 1:32
-
Opening doors, real rubber tires; true-to-scale detail.
-
A crowd-pleaser that mixes play and pose nicely.
-
Best for: Young enthusiasts moving up from 1:64.
9) Toyota Supra (Fast & Furious) (Jada, 1995/2020 variants) — 1:24
-
Opening hood/doors/boot, film-accurate body kits; stunning gold finish.
-
Movie-car energy with sturdy play value.
-
Best for: Kids and movie fans who’ll actually roll it around.
10) Volkswagen Beetle Low Ride (Collab editions) (Schuco & Tarmac Works) — 1:64
-
Limited-edition collab castings with roof-rack/luggage details; metal body/chassis.
-
Pocketable nostalgia with collector cred.
-
Best for: Stocking fillers, desk toys, and starter collections.
Caring for Your Diecast Car Collection
To keep them looking new, start with storage. Dust and sunlight are the main enemies, so either rotate models on open shelves or keep regular displays in cases. Big Boy Toys US carries acrylic cases for 1:64 multi-car displays and 1:43 singles, which protect against dust and accidental knocks. Microfibre cloths and a gentle air blower (or soft brush) help you clean without scratching paint or lifting decals. Avoid solvents and abrasive polishes on plastic windows or printed graphics.
Arrange with a theme so the shelf tells a story. Group by era, brand, body style or colour; label shelves; and rotate models from brighter to shadier spots every few months if they’re near a window.
Why Buy from Big Boy Toys US?
-
Diverse selection: To help you shop with confidence, you get scale filters, brand filters, and “Shop by Age” categories across a huge catalogue — from beginner-friendly 1:64 to premium 1:18 centrepieces.
-
Great shipping experience: For gifting, the shipping policy targets 1–2 business days processing and an aim of around five business days to your door, with free shipping on qualifying orders in the continental US. You can also preview models through their YouTube channel and check product details and reviews where available
Customer reviews & ratings
-
CARLOS - A perfect miniature
A perfect miniature. Better than expected, for the price.
-
KouKou - Beautiful
Beautiful toys
288 GTO Wide-Body - Latte Art Red 1:64 by Hone Model 64
-
KouKou - I love this porsche diorama
Repair Tools Display Kit in Red or Black 1:64 Scale by G-Fans
I love this porsche diorama it looks real
-
DAVID - Very Cool LH44
Awesome diecast. Perfect condition. Porsche 992 GT3 RS Pink Pig #23 1:6. I'm glad you had this available. I saw it at a car show but didn't buy it. Wanted to get the Lewis Hamilton 44, before not available. I mostly got it for show by wanting something more than a dust collector.
Thanks!
Ready to start or grow your collection? Browse Big Boy Toys US’s full diecast range and find your next favourite today, from the first wheel to your dream model, they’ve got it all. Bring home the thrill!
