1:43 scale is one of the most popularly collected die cast car scales world wide. Prices are usually linked to the finishing details and number of working parts. Many types and edition runs of limited editions are available, some companies also create serialized limited editions.
If you want to add to a friend's collection, find out what particular style and type of car they collect. To collect a memento of someone's first car, check the various companies for the range of models they produce.
These top picks are in alphabetical order.
11. Looksmart
Looksmart is an Italian company which creates limited edition models of racing/exotic cars. Their motto is we build your dreams, only smaller. They create limited editions of 500 to 1000 pieces in 1:43 scale models, which are in resin, photo etching, white metal and turned parts. Prices range from $100-$15012. Maisto
Maisto like Bburago and Yat Ming, is a mainstream producer of die cast editions of current cars and race cars available in most toy and hobby shops as well as online. They produce several series of 1:43 scale models as well as a wide range of die casts in 1:12, 1:18, and 1:24 scale. Prices range from $10 - $15 for most of their 1:43 line.
13. Minichamps
Minichamps was originally founded as Paul's Model Art GmbH in Germany. It produces 1:43 models of Formula I race cars, street cars, race cars, trucks, buses and military vehicles. They produce official car replicas for Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche and BMW. Most of the range sells for $15-$50
14. Schuco
Schuco are a German toy company producing a wide range of die cast scales and collections from classic and historic cars and trucks, through to modern cars and trucks as well as aircraft. They produce an extensive military series in 1:43 scale as well as a wide range of historic German vehicle models through to modern Boxters and BMW's They have a collectors club and extensive information about their various ranges online. Price range $15 to $80.
15. Yat Ming
Yat Ming produce mainly classic cars and trucks. The have a road signature series in 1:43 scale as well as cars with varying detail in 1:12, 1:18, 1:24, 1:64, and 1: 72 scales.Prices range from $5 to $10 for most of the 1:43 scale cars.There are several online dealers, and stock is carried by lots of hobby shops.
