Diecast Cat

During one of the COVID-19 lockdowns I wanted a project to work on with my daughter. She likes websites and toy cars so Diecast Cat was born.

We bought a few job lots of diecast toys and models from Facebook Marketplace and set about cataloguing them and building an online store using WordPress and Woocommerce. I wanted my daughter to see that making money can be fun, but there are concepts that need to be understood.

The diecastcat.shop website ran for a couple of years and sold a few cars, but didn’t exactly revolutionise the world of diecast collectables. The website has now been shut down but I wanted to create an archive of some of the work myself and my daughter put into this. So this blog post is an archive.

Diecast Cat homepage text

Probably the worlds largest online shop for collectable toy cars and other diecast models. All items are available for sale right now, there are no auctions. The price you see is the price you pay, plus shipping!

Welcome to Diecast Cat. We hunt the world for collectable diecast models and toys. We are here to bring you not only the rare and the collectable, but also the interesting, the obscure and the occasional bargain.

We are currently focussing on building our car collection, but we also source and supply a number of other diecast models. Diecast toy models online

We have the largest selection of diecast toy cars for sale. Our collection includes classic, vintage and modern models from all over the world. Whether you’re looking to add a new car to your collection or start one from scratch, we have something for everyone!

We’ve scoured the world to bring you this interesting collection of pre-loved diecast toy models. You can find all kinds of rare and unique items, like vintage Matchbox cars from the 1960s, Hot Wheels from the 1970s, or even some modern-day collectables that are hard to find in stores today. This is your one-stop-shop for everything related to diecast toys!

Are you a diecast toy model collector?

If you’re looking for something specific, we have an advanced search feature that allows you to filter by brand name, year released, and more. Our easy-to-use website makes it simple for anyone looking to add new pieces to their collection or start a new collection.

About page

Diecast Cat was started by Andrew Laws, who after a lifetime of being fascinated by diecast toy and models decided to make it a bigger part of his life.

Andrew’s daughter Issy (who was nine at the time) helped set up the business and continues to be involved in a genuine way with business decisions and operations. That’s why the logo looks the way it does; that was part of her contribution. Issy receives a percentage of the profit from each sale based on her level of participation in the business.

We are really proud of what we have achieved with Diecast Cat, but if you have any suggestions that might help us improve any aspect of what we do and how we operate please get in touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to buy diecast cars?

You can buy new diecast cars in many online stores, including the very large store that was named after a large river. There is also a large online auction where you can bid on collectable diecast cars that are not brand new. We recommend Diecast Cat (of course we do!).

But the world of diecast cars is about more than what’s available on the Internet. If you keeps your eyes peeled you’ll be amazed at the places diecast collectables of all types start to pop up!

How to display diecast cars?

This is eternal debate. If your diecast car is collectable and / or valuable should it be on display at all? We think it should. Unless your diecast collectable is super-super valuable we also think that it should be played with. So therefore perhaps the best place to display diecast cars is upside down on a carpet in your house, surrounded by toys and other items of delight. If that documentary ‘Toy Story’ taught us anything it’s that toys like to be played with, and need the company of other toys.

What diecast cars are worth money?

All diecast cars are worth ‘some’ money, even if it is only a few pennies. Some collectable diecast cars are worth a whole wodge of money. Figuring out which cars are worth money is a big challenge. There’s a very big online auction site you may have heard of where people sell diecast models and toys that they believe are particularly valuable. Our recommendation is to search for completed and sold items, because some of the prices for items currently for sale (so unsold!) can be a bit optimistic.

The joy of collecting diecast toy cars as a new hobby

The joy of collecting diecast toy cars

Getting into a new hobby is perhaps proof that some of us never seem to grow up. We retain a real joy from looking at the world around us, this easily extends to collecting toy cars. Adults might start a hobby that involves collecting toys because they are popular with kids – some people start collecting toy cars because they have a child or grandchild who shares the hobby. Whatever the reason, collecting diecast cars will help you feel to help you to feel young and will endear children to you.

It is a cliche that collecting diecast cars is man’s hobby; just as many women like to collect toy cars and toy diecast collectables

So what sort of diecast toys do people like to collect? Older people tend to collect cars and trucks. I’m not sure why, when there is so much choice available.

This is why antique metal cars are desirable and some very old cars become quite valuable.

Older brands like Matchbox, Corgi and Dinky have always been popular, so large are brands like Tonka. It’s not just cars that are popular with adults and kids alike – bulldozes and farm vehicles also very popular.

Whatever type of diecast cars you collect you can guarantee your children or grandchildren will love to play with them. Perhaps the reason you want to collect diecast cars is that they remind you of the cars you saw in your childhood, or because you’re trying to entertain your children. Collecting toy cars is a rewarding hobby that is always throwing up new things to find out about. Like a lot of exciting hobbies, when collecting diecast cars it is good idea to keep your eyes open for interesting things when at car boot sales, in junk shops or at charity auctions.

Here at Diecast Cat we find our cars in many different places, a lot of the sources might surprise you! We work hard to find interesting cars; sure our diecast cars aren’t always the prettiest, but they are always interesting and have a story behind them.

Please let us know which diecast cars are your favourites.

Diecast Cars – a brief history

The Diecast car has a special place in many of our hearts. Collectables, beloved toys, works of art, there are a hundred reasons to love them and as many uses. But there is a reason we are all in love with this classic – and much of that is rooted in its history.

It’s vast, deep, and has been an integral part of childhoods for generations. Diecast cars aren’t just toys, they are pieces of family history that stand the test of time and can be passed down from child to child without losing any of the joy that they bring.

What is a Diecast Car?

An important question, and one we need to answer before we proceed. While commonly referred to as Diecast, it can also be written as die cast or die-cast – there is no incorrect way although avid collectors may argue with you on that point.

Generally speaking, the term refers to any toy that has been put through the die casting method of metal casting. Usually, it is made from a zinc alloy or lead (although the latter is very rare in modern times).

The process works by forcing the molten alloy under high pressure in a mould, which then created the base shape for the product. This is very similar to plastic injection methods but using metal instead. It was the perfect way to mass-produce simple toys before cheap plastics.

The die casting process has been used to create every type of vehicle, not just cars, and the technique can vary according to the country it is manufactured in. For example, the Japanese giant robot Chokogin is created using die casting but uses production methods similar to actual classic cars. It’s a painful yet incredible process to behold.

What’s the Appeal of diecast cars?

A lot of the appeal comes from the fact that this process is able to so perfectly replicate classic car models that we know and love. Dinky Toys is a classic example, as one of their early Diecast cars was a model of the 1930s race car known as “The Speed of the Wind”.

Once this land speed record-breaking model hit the market, it began a trend among other manufacturers as well. Chrysler, Ford, Volkswagen, and Rolls-Royce are just some of the makes that were captured in miniature Diecast form for children and collectors globally.

Among collectors, the trucks are also a popular style. They are quite iconic and often have special branding on them that makes them stand out. As an example, the Heinz branded truck from Dinky Toys is still exceptionally popular among collectors today.

What’s the History?

To really get into the history of Diecast cars, we need to look at the top brands that made these mini motors what they are today. The important thing to know is that our story begins in England. During the 50s and 60s, two major brands competed for the leading market space.

It wasn’t until much later that America joined in, having witnessed the success of the British market. This is where Hot Wheels comes into the picture – but we will take a more detailed look at each brand in question below.

Dinky Toys
They were the pioneers of the Diecast toy industry, the leaders and the reason behind the success of the concept. It was in 1935 that they created their first Diecast car, twenty years before any other manufacturer.

Before this, they made model trains and construction sets under the name Meccano – a brand that was established in 1908. Their first Diecast cars were sold in a set of six and consisted of a sports car, delivery van, a tank, a sports coupe, a truck, and a farm tractor.

It wasn’t long after that they started producing other vehicles, such as planes, and dominated the market as the sole Diecast vehicle creator for two decades. Then, Corgi came along.

Corgi Toys
You may know this brand’s most popular and iconic car as the one with the windows. A Welsh brand, they specialised in tin plate toys before moving onto Diecast. In 1965, they took the industry by storm with the creation of galvanised plastic windows, something we could not do without today.

They were full of confidence, their slogan the one with the windows still remembered decades later. Their initial line was composed of eight vehicles – each a classic in their own right. The size of the cars was the same as Dinky, scale 0 as per the sizing guide used for models trains. Their line was a hit, and people went wild for the fancy windows and classic car models.

Matchbox Cars
Another classic, they came a few years after Corgi launched its successful line of windowed cars. Matchbox made theirs a little smaller than the industry standard, although the size did vary so that they would fit in the tiny packaging. Interestingly, this did not negatively impact popularity.

They were branded as the affordable option – offering a lower price point without compromising on quality. They sparked a war between the three major leaders with Dinky, Corgi, and Matchbox all releasing one car after the other to try and outmatch their competition.

For an entire decade, the three brands were locked in a tense stalemate – unable to break free and come out on top. Everything changed when America entered the market with Hot Wheels.

Hot Wheels
Elliot Handler founded Hot Wheels in 1968, and if that sounds familiar it’s also because he would later create Mattel Toys. He came out with a line of tiny Diecast cars, but they were different from the competition – they weren’t modelled on real vehicles.

Instead, they were exaggerated and customised to match the imagination of the child playing with them. Pullback racing functionality, unrealistic features, everything that made fantasy cars a reality in your living room. Not to mention the track they came with.

The original line was called Sweet Sixteen and had a track that was sold separately. It was a huge hit in America, and when they brought it to Europe it gave the Big Three British manufacturers a run for their money.

The Collapse of British Diecast

It sounds like a dramatic tale, but the sad truth is that Hot Wheels led to the collapse of British Diecast cars. Dinky Toys was the first to fall, its factories closing in 1979. By this point, Hot Wheels had changed their slogan to go with the winner as a sign of their success.

Corgi, Dinky, and Matchbox were all purchased by Mattel, with the former eventually being sold and rebranded as Corgi Classics. They still produce replicas of the originals today. Mattel still has a Matchbox line, but Dinky has been allowed to die off and no longer remains.

To Conclude

Diecast is about so much more than the value of the toy, it’s about the history and memories that come with them. Diecast has had an exciting and fast-paced evolution, one that saw Hot Wheels dominate the market even to this day. Currently, they remain the leader of the Diecast world, but with its popularity on the rise, could this continue to be the case?

Diecast models – why are they so popular?

If you’re a collector, then you know that diecast models are worth collecting! They come in various sizes and shapes, so there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s muscle cars or minivans, they will all get your motor running. So if you’ve been looking for the perfect toy to put on your shelf, look no further than this post!

The diecast models are popular because they are so life-like. They have accurate detail in the wheels, body and interior of the car. Collectors love to display them on shelves or desks, even hang them from ceilings. There is a wide range of brands available for all types of tastes and budgets – something for everyone!
Diecast Models: Why Are They So Popular?

What are diecast models?

Although the hobby of collecting diecast models may seem like a recent phenomenon, it is actually one that has been around for many years. Diecast models are toys or miniature replicas of real-world vehicles, which can be made from different materials such as metal, plastic or resin. While there are a number of different types of diecast models available for collectors to collect, sports cars and trucks seem to be the most popular among enthusiasts. So what exactly draws people to collect diecast models? And why do they remain so popular? In this blog post, we will take a closer look at these questions and discuss some of the reasons why diecast model collectors find these toys so engaging.

Diecast models are one of the most popular and cherished collectables on the market. Though often confused with toy cars, diecast models are miniatures that are manufactured from metal and other materials, making them both more durable and valuable than their plastic counterparts. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, here at Diecast Cat we want to help you get the most out of your diecast collection.

Diecast model toys as an investment

Diecast model cars are a popular collector’s item. While it may be hard to believe for some, these tiny replicas can actually be worth a lot of money. In fact, there are several models that have sold for serious money. So if you’re ever lucky enough to come across an old Corvette or Porsche at a garage sale, make sure to snatch it up – you could be sitting on a small fortune!

When you first think of diecast models, the first thing that comes to your mind is probably cars. But there are so many different types of models out there! If you’re looking for a new hobby or just want some fun desk décor, then diecast models could be for you.

If you’re like me and love collecting diecast models of your favourite cars, I can offer some tips on how to get the most out of your hobby. It’s always a good idea to start with what you know and expand from there. For example, if you have an interest in Ford vehicles, it might be wise to focus on acquiring models from that manufacturer before branching out into other brands. Do your research so when friends ask which model they should buy next, you can point them in the right direction for their interests!

Types of diecast models

What are diecast models? They’re miniature replicas of cars, planes, and other vehicles. But it’s not just any vehicle you’ll find in a diecast model – these replicas can be made with a variety of materials ranging from plastic to metal, some even have working parts! And the best part is that they come at an affordable price.

Diecast models are the most popular type of model cars. They are made to look like real-life vehicles and can be found in almost any toy store, at movie theatres where they’re handed out as prizes, or online on websites like Diecast Cat. There are many different types of diecast models with some being more expensive than others depending on what it is that you want to collect. If you’re looking for a specific car but don’t know which one then there’s no better place to visit than Diecast Cat where we list their items by make and model so that buyers can find exactly what they need. The selection is huge! You’ll never have trouble finding whatever it is that interests you from motorcycles to muscle cars and everything in between including those rare vintage models.

Why collect diecast models?

You might find yourself asking, “Why collect diecasts?” You’re not alone. Collecting diecast cars is a hobby that many people are drawn to for different reasons. Some want the thrill of the hunt, some like customizing their collections, and others just enjoy admiring the beauty of these miniature vehicles. No matter what your reason for collecting may be, you’ll find it hard to deny that there’s something captivating about these little metal car replicas! Whether you’re an avid collector or someone who likes to keep one in their desk drawer as a conversation starter (or both!), diecast models are FUN!

Collecting diecasts is not just for kids anymore. These days, many collectors are adults who have a passion for cars and history. Whether you’re looking to fill out your collection of vintage classics or need some modern-day muscle, there’s a model waiting for you at the store. With so many models to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start – but don’t worry!

Common brands of diecast models

We are based in the UK, so in this country, some of the most popular brands include Matchbox and Dinky. But around the world the number of companies who make, or who have made diecast toys is huge. If you would like to read a long list of diecast model brands, have a read of this list on Wikipedia.

In conclusion.

If you’ve been looking for a new hobby or way to spend time with your kids, we have the perfect solution. Diecast models offer hours of fun and are surprisingly cheap! The best part is that they look great when displayed in any room – from garage to living room. You can even have use diecast model sets to create a scene like a race track or airport. So if you’re ready to take on this exciting hobby, check out our selection today!

Product category and car description archive

Diecast Cars

Our diecast cars are the perfect gift for anyone who loves to collect. They’re made of high-quality materials, including genuine metal and plastic, and come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colours. You can find anything from classic American muscle cars to modern Japanese imports here at our store!

Every car comes with its own unique story – whether it was owned by an ungrateful child or used as a prop in an imaginary TV show or movie set by an grateful child.

If you love collecting toys like we do, then these diecast cars will be right up your alley! And if you want something special, just let us know what you’re looking for and we’ll see what we can do. So don’t wait any longer – buy now while supplies last! We only have one of each car in our catalogue in stock!

Diecast Buses

Diecast Buses is the must-have collection for toy car enthusiasts of all ages!

These beautifully crafted diecast buses are made to be loved and played with, and some are a bit battered because they’ve been well-used. But that just makes them even more loved!

If you’re looking for a nostalgic toy bus collection that will bring back memories of childhood, Diecast Cat is definitely the right choice.

Diecast Lorries

Looking for a way to add a bit of charm to your little one’s toy collection?

Look no further than our selection of diecast lorries! Priced affordably, these lorries have been loved by kids all over the world and show off plenty of character. Whether you’re looking for a gift or just something new for your child’s collection, our diecast lorries are sure to please. This is a gift you don’t need to worry about your child damaging!

Vauxhall Astra GTE Opel Kadett GSi Matchbox 1985

Introducing the perfect collectable for all car enthusiasts – the Vauxhall Astra GTE Opel Kadett GSi Matchbox diecast model toy made in 1985! This replica is a faithful reproduction of the original, down to the last detail. It’s a must-have for anyone who loves cars, and it would make an excellent addition to any collection. So don’t miss out – order your Vauxhall Astra GTE Opel Kadett GSi Matchbox diecast model toy today!

Corgi Juniors Can-Am Racer Growlers

Vintage diecast car – Corgi

Who’s a good boy? You are, that’s who! Because you’re going to get your very own Corgi Juniors Can-Am Racer Growler! Your friends will be so jealous when they see you cruising around in this sweet ride. It even has a working steering wheel and pedals*, so you can really pretend you’re driving. Just don’t forget to fill up your growler with your favourite beer before hitting the open road.

Porsche

Do you love Porsche?

Porsche is the most expensive and luxurious automobile on the market. It’s also one of the most sought-after cars in all the world. That’s why we created this collection of used Porsche toy cars, which are perfect for kids who want to play with their own toy that looks like a real Porsche!

We offer an extensive selection of used Toy Porsches from all generations and models from many different years of production for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether you are looking for something classic or modern we have what you need to satisfy your needs.

Lincoln Continental Lesney Matchbox Series No.31

Vintage diecast car with wonky wheels and tipex damage

Who wouldn’t love this? It’s a classic Lesney Matchbox car with all the character you could hope for. This Lincoln Continental has seen some action, but it’s still got plenty of life left in it. So jump in and take a spin around town!

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Last Updated on February 21, 2023