Scale fro matchbox cars

[Anonymous]

Hello,

I was wondering about the scale of matchbox cars. I have a few from my younger years that I would like to place on a HO layout. I know HO is 1:87, what is matchbox? Do they look okay or realistic on a layout or should I spend the money and order cars and trucks specifically for HO from Walthers?

ANy suggestions?

Thanks

Ross

[orsonroy]

Believe it or not, Matchbox scales their cars to fit inside their standard box. Hence, there are all sorts of "scales" in the Matchbox line. Most scale out between 1:90 and 1:60, so the best way to figure out if they're close to HO is to bring a cheap 40' box with you when you buy. If they look too grossly out of scale, don't get 'em.

[DSchmitt]

When I was a kid I used Matchbox cars with my HO trains, but I was not as "scale conscious'" then. I beleave they are actually "box scale" . They are sized to fit in the box. Many are very close to HO.

[Anonymous]

Some matchbox cars do print their scale right on the bottom of the vehicles.

While I'm still using some as placeholders, I've found that far too many are not right for HO scale due to either the factory paint or the level of detail.

It's really too bad that some of the collectable die cast manufacturers don't offer vehicles in HO or close to HO scales.

[Anonymous]

I found some die-cast race cars of about the same size, and one in particular that I remember was scaled at 1/66 - roughly S scale (1/64). They'd look good with American Flyer or other S, but not HO.

[Anonymous]

most of the ones I have are 1/64th scale. they are generally sold in stores everywhere

[DSchmitt]

QUOTE: Originally posted by tycointl

most of the ones I have are 1/64th scale. they are generally sold in stores everywhere

I think you are correct about their current products. Back in the 1950's and 60's their cars were smaller.

[Anonymous]

Blackhawk04,
As soon as those manufacturers realize they can get $15-20 each, instead of $.99, they will start scaling them down.

[Anonymous]

Try putting the larger cars near the front of your layout and the smaller ones to the rear creating a forced perspective. If done correctly it can add depth to your layout.

[Anonymous]

Some of Matchbox cars are near 1:87. Look at the Austin water tank, communication box van, Saracen, etc. some trucks look very good. Try taking the paint off and then paint your desired modelling colour.
But be very conscious, some Matchbox are worth a lot, look at their prices in e-bay, you’ll be shocked. There are also some trucks that go great in the layout, I recommend you step in: http://www.87thscale.info/
or http://www.1-87vehicles.org/ , in this one go to Photo Gallery and you’ll be amazed what you can do with Matchbox, Majorete (French manufacturer) or any very inexpensive toy cars.