1:18 scale is a popular diecast collectible scale, especially for die cast cars. 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 edition die casts.

If you want to add to a friend's collection, find out what particular die cast scale, 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.

1. Auto Art

Auto Art produce a huge line of scale model die casts, more than 450 of them in 1:18 scale. Other scales they produce include 1:12, 1:43, 1:64 as well as 1:24 and 1:32 slot cars. Gateway Global who manufacture Auto Art also produce the Gate brand of die casts. They have a die cast collectors club online and also sell a wide line of accessories for car fanatics. Products carried: mainly current model cars including some racing models. Price range: from $50 - $80 in 1:18 scale.

Price range: from $15 - $50 for most of their 1:18 scale line.
Products carried: mainly current model cars and motorbikes

2. Bburago
Bburago produce some of the most widely available die cast cars, found everywhere from collectors stores to big box retailers. Much of their line is available in other scales of 1:24, 1:32, 1:43, as well as some kits.

Price range: from $15 - $50 for most of their 1:18 scale line.
Products carried: mainly current model cars and motorbikes

3. CMC

Classical Motor Cars create 1:18 scale classic European die cast cars with varying detail. They also make cars in 1:12 and 1:24 scales. Detailing and research are extensive with leather covered seats and even the least expensive of the models made from more than 220 parts. Great information on models appears with a click on the illustrations on their available model page. In their upper range of models you can choose different interior colors exactly matched to the originals.

Price range: from $100 to $250 (1:18 scale models).
Products carried: Ferrari, Maserati, Bugatti, Horch and Mercedes-Benz model cars in 1:18 scale

4. Ertl toys

RCErtl models were commonly available via toy and hobby shops as well as online. The range now appears limited to the John Deere Tractor line. In addition to their limited edition American Muscle cars they did produce lines of promotional and collectors die casts in several scales, including 1:18 die cast vehicles featuring Thomas Kinkade paintings.

Price range: American Muscle line ranges from $25-$50.
Products carried: 1:18 scale American Mucle cars in limited editions, trucks and atvs