Over the years, the hobby of collecting model cars has undergone significant changes. What was once just a children's toy has become an exciting pastime for people of all ages. These detailed models manage to remarkably reproduce real vehicles. Among the different scales available, the most popular is 1:64, due to its perfect balance of size, detail, and affordable price.
Join us on this journey through the history of 1:64 scale diecast models, from their humble beginnings to today's sophisticated world, where brands like Mini GT, Tarmac Works, Pop Race, and Inno 64 are redefining the standards of quality and collectability. We'll also show you how these brands are available in our online store so you can purchase the most outstanding models.
The Early Years: The Birth of Diecast
The history of diecasting begins at the beginning of the 20th century, when the first die-casting techniques were used to produce small metal objects, including miniature cars. The first brands to adopt this technique, such as Dinky Toys In the United Kingdom during the 1930s, they began manufacturing scale model vehicles intended primarily as toys. These early models were far from the precision we see today, but they laid the groundwork for what would later become a global phenomenon.
The emergence of Matchbox and the explosion of the 1:64 scale
It was in the 1950s when the 1:64 scale began to consolidate, thanks to the ingenious concept of Matchbox . This British brand, founded by Lesney Products, revolutionized the market by designing cars that, as its name suggests, could fit inside a small matchbox. This innovation made it easy for children to transport their cars and quickly made Matchbox one of the most popular toy brands worldwide.
Matchbox's success lay not only in its practical size, but also in its ability to offer a diverse range of vehicles. The models, although more basic by modern standards, captured the essence of real vehicles and could be purchased at an affordable price, allowing children and future collectors to begin building their collections.
The 1960s and 1970s: Hot Wheels and the design revolution
In 1968, the diecast world experienced another milestone with the launch of Hot Wheels , a brand of the toy giant Mattel. Hot Wheels not only improved the speed and performance of vehicles with its low-friction wheels, but also introduced a more striking and colorful visual style. Hot Wheels cars, with extravagant designs and interactive tracks, captured the imaginations of children and adults alike, creating a strong fan base that lasts to this day.
This new generation of diecast cars was faster, more fun, and more collectible, thanks to limited editions, themed series, and the increasing attention to detail in each model. Over the next few decades, Hot Wheels and Matchbox dominated the 1:64 scale market, making it a favorite for millions of people.
Collecting in evolution: Beyond the toy
As the years progressed, the 1:64 scale began to move away from being seen solely as a toy. Manufacturers began to notice a growing interest from adult collectors, leading to a more serious focus on model accuracy and detail. GreenLight Collectibles , for example, began manufacturing highly detailed replicas of cars from television series, movies, and historic vehicles, resulting in limited editions that are highly sought after by collectors.
Brands like Johnny Lightning , M2 Machines and Auto World They also responded to the demand for more accurate models, introducing cars with interior details, realistic engines, and finishes that emulated the appearance of the original vehicles. With the rise of adult collectors, these 1:64 scale models were no longer mere toys, but pieces of art and nostalgia that evoked a love of cars and automotive culture.
The present: The new generation of 1:64 scale diecast models
Today, the world of diecast has reached levels of sophistication never seen before. Premium brands such as Mini GT , Tarmac Works , Pop Race and Inno 64 They have raised the bar for quality in the manufacture of 1:64 scale models. These manufacturers focus on absolute precision, replicating real cars with details previously only available in larger, more expensive models.
Mini GT: Precision and quality at scale
Mini GT Mini GT is one of the most recognized brands in the premium 1:64 scale diecast segment. Its focus on build quality and attention to detail has attracted collectors worldwide. Mini GT is renowned for its reproductions of sports and luxury cars, offering models that include precise details such as mirrors and vehicle interiors, something rarely seen in this scale.
High-quality materials, combined with impeccable craftsmanship, make Mini GT cars highly desirable additions to any collection. Furthermore, their limited-production philosophy makes many of their models true gems that increase in value over time.
Tarmac Works: A fusion of passion and design
Another brand that has revolutionized the diecast market is Tarmac Works . Based in Hong Kong, this brand has earned a solid reputation thanks to its focus on competition cars and limited editions. Tarmac Works not only reproduces road cars, but also racing models such as GTs and rally vehicles, capturing the essence of motorsport in miniature.
What sets Tarmac Works apart is its obsession with detail. From the sponsor logos on the race cars to the tire patterns and interior cockpits, each model is a work of art deeply appreciated by collectors.
Pop Race: Innovation and contemporary style
Pop Race Pop Race is a newer brand that has burst onto the diecast scene with a unique combination of innovation and contemporary style. Its 1:64 scale cars are known for their high-end finish and collaborations with racing teams and car manufacturers. Pop Race specializes in sports and street car models, which has attracted a new generation of young collectors who value both aesthetics and technical accuracy.
Inno 64: Unparalleled detail and absolute fidelity
Finally, Inno 64 Inno 64 has established itself as a favorite among the most demanding collectors. Inno 64 combines incredible attention to detail with high-quality production, standing out for its Japanese and European car models. Its limited editions and accurate vehicle replicas make it a must-have for enthusiasts seeking the best in 1:64 scale diecast models.
The influence of the digital age and global collecting
The rise of the internet has made diecast car collecting more accessible than ever. Collectors are no longer limited by geography and can buy, sell, and trade models from around the world through online platforms and social media. Brands such as Mini GT, Tarmac Works, Pop Race, and Inno 64 have taken advantage of this globalization, distributing their products worldwide and cultivating a loyal fan base.
Furthermore, social media has been key to the creation of global collector communities, where fans share their collections, advice, and opinions on the latest releases.
Conclusion: The future of 1:64 scale is bright
The evolution of 1:64 scale diecast models has been impressive, from the early days of Dinky Toys and Matchbox to the present day, where brands like Mini GT, Tarmac Works, Pop Race, and Inno 64 are setting new standards of quality. What began as a simple toy has evolved into a true cult object for collectors around the world.
If you're passionate about collecting or looking for the next diecast model to add to your collection, we invite you to visit our online store, where we offer an exclusive selection of these premium brands. Don't miss the latest releases and limited editions of Mini GT, Tarmac Works, Pop Race, and Inno 64, available now in our shop!