NASCAR DIECAST

Executive Summary about Diecast
By L. Michael Clark & Adriana A Noton

Nascar diecast model cars are collectible toys that are produced using a die casting method. The cars are made of a metal alloy of aluminum and zinc, with the remaining parts of the car being plastic. Along with the growing popularity of Nascar racing in the 1990s, came the die cast cars and trucks of Nascar painted in the colors of the different racing teams.

Diecast (or die cast, or die-cast) toys were first produced early in the 20th century by manufacturers in the United Kingdom and in the United States. In the early days it was common for impurities in the metal alloy to result in metal fatigue and the casting would crack or decompose for no apparent reason. As a result, diecast toys made before World War II are difficult to find in good condition.

Today quality diecast model manufacturers produce models that are miniature engineering feats. Meticulous detail is recreated in these replica models released in scales popular with the growing fraternity of diecast collectors. This is an international hobby, so the market for such cars is huge. These miniature models can range in prices ranges from a few dollars for Mattel Hot Wheels type to even thousands of dollars for highly detailed cars from a manufacturer like Autoart.

Fully constructed die cast metal scale model cars are very popular with collectors. Scaled models are manufactured in a range of scales such as 1:12, 1:24, 1:43, 1:64 and others. Cars that are especially attractive are those with a real eye to detail. Doors, hoods, trunks and fuel caps that open, ashtrays that slide out and glove compartments that work are some of the realized features. Some models cars even have hanging ignition keys and removable hood pins to open the hood. Most have working car steering and suspension with real materials used in the interiors.

To a new collector the number of models available may seem daunting. Some degree of specialization will make choice more manageable. How about a certain style or model, by manufacturer, a certain year, a certain scale, type of material used or a themed collection? NASCAR models have a large number of fans. If you single out a manufacturer, brand new models can be purchased on release and you can search for bargains and rare examples from car boot sales, flea markets, yard sales, forums and that great resource internet auction site like ebay.

Collectors are drawn to this hobby and the time and money involved for different reasons. It could be a passion for collection of skillfully crafted replica cars in miniature. It could be an investment with the hope the collection will increase in value; or some other urge to collect these miniature models of motoring perfection. Once you start on the collection route you may not be able to stop. You may want to expand your activities into restoration and the building of cars from kits. This could become an addiction. No matter what your age, collecting model cars can become an exciting hobby.