Info about Model Cars
History of Model Cars
Model cars began to be produced for the first time in the early 20th century by manufacturers located in the United States and the United Kingdom. The first model cars placed for sale on the market were basic, consisting of a small car or van body with no interior. In the early days it was also commonplace for the alloy used to manufacture the model to have impurities which would cause it to crack or distort for no reason. Because of this, model cars manufactured prior to the Second World War are difficult to find in good condition. Today in the manufacture of model cars, high purity alloys are used to prevent this problem. The popularity of model cars as collectibles began in the 1950s when their detail and quality increased. As a result of the increased popularity, more companies entered the market which saw innovations such as the addition of interiors and clear plastic windows.
In the 1940s, the popular Matchbox 1-75 series earned its name because there were always 75 different vehicles in line, each wrapped in a little box designed to resemble those used to contain matches. These toys became popular to the extent that the word 'Matchbox' has been popularized as a generic term for any model car, regardless of the manufacturer. In 1968, Hot Wheels were introduced in the U.S. by the toy company Mattel. As they looked fast and travelled quickly, as a result of a low-friction wheel and axle, Hot Wheels quickly exploited an important niche in the market for model cars. They became one of the best sellers in the world and challenged the Matchbox 1-75 series in popularity. In 1997, Mattel bought Matchbox, essentially merging the Hot Wheels and Matchbox 1-75 line brands. Both brands continue to trade under their own names, however much of the competition that drove innovation has been lost.
By 1980, it was clear that many model cars were being purchase for adults as collectibles, rather than as toys for children.
As the popularity of NASCAR racing increased during the 1990's, many of NASCAR race cars and trucks, painted in colors of the various racing teams entered production to satisfy the collectables market. As well as model cars, manufactures began to produce trucks, buses, farm vehicles, construction equipment and military models. Around the year 2000, the quality and accuracy of model cars improved significantly. By 2005, the premium level manufacturers began to offer high quality, highly detailed models at higher prices. Today, many of these former 'premium' features are now in the mainstream, low-priced model cars that cost less than one hundred dollars. Engine wiring and plumbing, as well as carpets, furniture, detailed instrument panels, seat belts, and photo-etched details are also common in even the most basic model cars, often costing less than fifty dollars.
type of model car purchased depends very much on the individual who wishes to use it, and there purpose. For example, a parent purchasing for their child would require a less expensive and less detailed model than a collector who wanted to add to their prized display.
Model cars are a fun collector’s items for young children, and they can move up from Hot Rods to model cars when they reach the appropriate age. Model cars are also a good hobby for children to work on with their fathers. It is a time-expending activity that is better than doing puzzles.