miniatures
scale guide
everything you need to know about different diecast car scales
Renault diecast car scale guide: which size should you choose for your collection?
Whether you're a passionate collector, a fan of miniature sports cars, or looking for a unique gift, understanding the different diecast car scales is essential before purchasing a model vehicle. Between 3 inches, 1/64, 1/43, and 1/18 formats, each size meets specific needs in terms of collecting, display, and budget.
Discover our complete guide to choosing the best diecast car scale.
What is a diecast car scale?
A scale represents the ratio between the size of the real vehicle and that of the miniature model.
For example:
A 1/18 diecast car is 18 times smaller than the original vehicle.
A 1/43 model is 43 times smaller.
A 1/64 model is 64 times smaller.
The smaller the number after “1/”, the larger and more detailed the miniature model.
3 Inches diecast car: the compact and fun format
The term 3 Inches corresponds to a length of approximately 7.5 cm. It is not a precise scale but rather a very popular format in the world of collectible diecast cars.
Why choose a 3 Inches model?
3-inch models are particularly appreciated for:
Their affordable price
Their wide variety of vehicles
Their compact size
Their ease of storage
These miniatures are ideal for:
Starting a collection
Giving a gift to a child or enthusiast
Building a large collection without running out of space
Average length: 7 to 8 cm
1/64 diecast car: the must-have scale for collectors
The 1/64 scale is now one of the most sought-after formats on the diecast car market.
Very popular among specialist brands, it allows collectors to acquire a large number of models while maintaining an excellent level of detail.
The advantages of 1/64
Compact size
Generally affordable pricing
Extremely wide choice of vehicles
Ideal for dioramas and compact display cases
Average length: 6 to 8 cm
Who is it for?
Beginner collectors
Modern car enthusiasts
Motorsport fans
Collectors looking for excellent value for money
1/43 diecast car: the collector's benchmark
For decades, the 1/43 scale dominated the European collectible diecast car market.
Even today, it remains one of the preferred formats among enthusiasts thanks to its excellent balance between size, realism, and price.
Why choose a 1/43 model?
1/43 models offer:
Numerous exterior details
High-quality finishes
Reasonable space requirements
A vast catalog of historic and modern vehicles
Average length: 10 to 12 cm
Ideal for:
Experienced collectors
Classic car enthusiasts
1/18 diecast car: realism above all
The 1/18 diecast car is often considered one of the best scales for faithfully reproducing a real vehicle.
Thanks to its generous dimensions, it allows manufacturers to include many details that are impossible to reproduce on smaller formats.
The strengths of 1/18
Detailed interior
Accurately reproduced engine
Opening doors
Functional hood and trunk on many models
Exceptional display presence
Average length: 22 to 30 cm
What type of collector is it for?
1/18 is perfect for:
Demanding collectors
Luxury vehicle enthusiasts
What size diecast car should you choose?
Choose a 1/64 or 3 Inches diecast car if:
You have limited space.
You want to collect a large number of models.
You are looking for the best value for money.
Choose a 1/43 diecast car if:
You want an excellent balance between size and detail.
You collect historic or racing vehicles.
Choose a 1/18 diecast car if:
You are looking for exceptional realism.
You display your models in a showcase.
You want to acquire premium collector’s pieces.
Buy diecast cars in the best format
Choosing the right diecast car scale mainly depends on your available space, budget, and collecting goals. 1/64 and 3 Inches formats are perfect for large collections, while 1/43 models stand out for their balance between size and detail. For enthusiasts seeking realism, 1/18 models remain the ultimate benchmark.
Whether you are looking for a Renault 5 Turbo 1/18, a Renault Clio Williams 1/43, or a Renault 4 1/64, The Originals store offers a wide selection of models and scales to enhance your display case with the finest automotive replicas.