New to this, sortof

[4runner]

Hi there,

As you know I am new to this forum this will be my first post. I have not collected any models from Biante yet, most of the models I have are reasonably nicely detailed ones that would be available from most Toy shops. I have never spent around the $200 mark on a model and am wondering what sort of things I can hope to see inside of a model in that price range as most of those seen on this forum are.

I have quite a few models around the $80 mark that are very detailed, but all details are in plastic rather than material, so no carpet etc and my question is, what details might I see on a model like a Biante 1:18 scale?

To give a little bit of info about me (I don't know if this is where I am meant to do this?) I have been collecting and also building models for years, including those that require painting (you know the kind).

I picked up a copy of a diecast magazine that had some great photos of a Bentley interior and only this week had I realised that while the expensive Toy store models had a high level of detail, I had never known that you could purchase carpetted models with frills (such as the Bentley) which had a beautiful wooden dash appearence.

I have spent long hours this week looking at pictures of car models trying to get a good look at their interiors and am amazed at how realistic these expensive models can look. Being someone who collects Model Trains I am not new to spending .. More than I should, on models and am looking forward to collecting a few of these highly detailed models. Currently thinking that new brock model will find its way into my collection.

If this topic is too long or in the wrong forum, let me know as I am aware that forums have appropriate places for particular topics.

Cheers

Kris

[Maq]

Welcome to the forum.
Your best bet is to find a local Dicact shop and have a look.Just make sure you do not take to much money as you will find out ,this is a habbit or an addiction and is a life sentence :D

[4runner]

You are right, I go into Model Train stores and buy things from scales that I don't even use.

Might bring just enough for one... but you know "two" rolls off the tongue better than "one".

I'll go see if there are any model vehicles that catch my eye, which will be all of them.

I have a couple of good local hobby shops, and won't they love me when they realise I will be purchasing their model cars too.

Thank you for the Welcome

[VE II]

Welcome to the forum kris... and to this awesome hobby.

The 1:18 scaled cars have awesome detail - both road and race - and theres such a range. Best bet is to work out a theme that you like, e.g. historics, road cars, modern v8s, and a particular car manufacturer or team, e.g. HRT, Peter Brock, Holden or Exotics (Aston Martins, Jaguars) etc. Then hit up one of your local model shops and just spend a bit of time down there and find your first 1:18... and trust me, it wont be your last! Once you get a theme going you can pick up a lot of older release cars cheaper and easier from ebay and you have an ulimited range.

Good model companys are minichamps for exotic cars, or biante and classics for aussie road and racing cars. The v8s have amazing details inside and out, while so do the latest biante road range (holden vks - carpet and moving seats etc).

Mortgage your house (interest rates are down) and happy collecting :D

[wayno]

Welcome to the forum mate. Feel free to ask any questions you like as most of the guys here are pretty friendly and knowledgable. I've gone the 1:18 scale route as I love the detail and the size.
Go to a die-cast specialist and have a look at a few cars and then decide for yourself. If you're looking to limit things once you've started try sticking to certain themes (1:18 scale f1 world champions is an exceptional one :D) as this can help keep the temptation to buy models that don't fit what you collect.
Good luck. This is a very addictive hobby. ;)

[El Cheapo]

Welcome to the forum :D

The Biante and Classic Carlectables cars have excellent detail inside and out. Here's a few pics of some interiors for ya :)


--Classics VY Commodore--

http://img234.imageshack.us/img234/9140/dscn0294qm 8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img234.imageshack.us/img234/dscn0294qm8.jpg/ 1/w640.png (http://g.imageshack.us/img234/dscn0294qm8.jpg/1/)

As you can see there's not too much carpet in the supercars, the extent of the carpet only covers the 'flock' on the steeling wheel and the seat haha but the old cars have a lot of carpet since they were modified production cars.

[El Cheapo]

Now compare that to the Biante VY interior :p

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/6731/dscn0315et 2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/dscn0315et2.jpg/ 1/w640.png (http://g.imageshack.us/img442/dscn0315et2.jpg/1/)

[Holdennumber1]

Hi 4runner and welcome. :) I am similar to you in the fact that I've only just dicovered the more expensive and better brands at the start of this year. Before then, I collected Hot Wheels, Maisto and Bburago models. Anyway, enough about me.
If you want 1:18 scale race cars, I'd recommend Biante, Classic Carlectables and Autoart.
For 1:18 scale road cars, I'd say CMC (warning, very expensive), Biante, CC and Autoart are the best.
But in the end, its your choice and whatever you like best. And, if you want to find out all the Biante cars which have been made so far, have a browse through here (http://www.biante.com.au/faq_9.htm).
All the best with collecting
Cheers,
Thomas

[wayno]

For f1 cars you can't go past exoto and CMC. Big price tag, but achingly beautiful.

[inter]

welcome to the forum, this is a great hobby and there is agreat bunch of people here, Just ask a question and it will be anwsered.
Questions can vary from, model no#, decals, maintanace,faults, prices and so on

remeber to have fun doing it

[Leigh]

Welcome to the forum...just remember that when you ask two diecast collectors a question, you're likely to get two different answers LOL

[4runner]

Thanks for the replies,

I do look forward to collecting more, guess I will see what the local hobby shop has. Pics were great too, the detail looks terrific. Really looking forward to picking up a nice model. Not sure of a theme yet, as I do like Australian and American muscle but don't follow the racing on TV.

Will let you know what I buy, should be good.

[VE II]

Something like this maybe?
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/1-18-1972-FORD-XA-Falcon-SUPERBIRD-SHOW-CAR-free-post_W0QQitemZ140275082903QQihZ004QQcategoryZ29689 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/XA-FORD-GT-SUPERBIRD-HARDTOP-COUPE-1-18_W0QQitemZ250310365278QQihZ015QQcategoryZ223QQss PageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
or one of the new Monaros
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/1-18-Holden-Monaro-HZ-GTS-Sedan-Palais-White_W0QQitemZ370098425389QQihZ024QQcategoryZ2968 9QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Good luck - most of all with this - enjoy it!

[HQGTS74]

hi mate and welcome! Be careful, there is no cure for this addiction however there are a few rehab forums:D:rolleyes:. As everyone else said this hobby is great fun and rewarding however it can cost you. But it is all worth it. Try pick a theme and TRY and stick to it. I was initially getting aussie road cars only and then i thought, hmm just ONE brock car. I now have 3 brock cars and 3 moffat cars..haha. Look forward to chatting.
Chris
(im 15 by the way):)

[4runner]

Wow those links are some pretty impressive cars, thanks. Yes I will try to stick to a theme, don't know how I will go, and Chris you can never be too young to appreciate detailed model vehicles! Thanks for the warm welcome :) Sounds like you have quite the collection there :)

Cheers

Kris

[malscar]

Hmmm American muscle.

http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m225/malscar/Ra ce%20Cars/18%20th%20scale/Dono.jpg

http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m225/malscar/Ra ce%20Cars/18%20th%20scale/Pens.jpg

http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m225/malscar/ot her%20Cars/004.jpg

Welcome to the madhouse Kris

[HQGTS74]

pic of my collection just for u mate;)..so u can see what type of cars are around..plenty of monaros, toranas, GTs etc..

http://i309.photobucket.com/albums/kk392/HQGTS74/D SC00534.jpg

[Holdennumber1]

Wow, your collection gets better every time I see it Chris. :):cool: I have a copy of Diecast Magazine sitting on my desk right now and your collection looks quite a lot smaller than it does now.
Can you wait for me to catch up?:rolleyes::D
Cheers,
Thomas

[HQGTS74]

haha thanks mate, yeh its growing a bit tooo quickly. Need another cabinet. By the way nice pic with Skaife mate! Hope u had a good time at Bathurst. Dad said we might go next year. Maybe we can catch up..
Chris

[pitcrew]

Nice monaros and toranas there Chris. :2thumbsup:

[lionking]

After awhile ya start doing these types of things to ya models aswell...

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z257/iluvnorks/ P1010413.jpg

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z257/iluvnorks/ 03022008015.jpg

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z257/iluvnorks/ P1000791.jpg

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z257/iluvnorks/ 100_1178.jpg

Welcome and good luck with your collecting mate....

[Brasha]

After seeing your collection Chris.

I can only imagine how big your fathers collection must be!!!

[Leigh]

Remember there are different scales as well as different themes...each to their own (also depends on $$$)

1:43 V8 Supercars:
http://inlinethumb64.webshots.com/22783/2388801290 102165354S500x500Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2388801290102165354tQhQIs )

1:64 Bathurst Winners:
http://inlinethumb50.webshots.com/39601/2454117360 102165354S500x500Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2454117360102165354uRPlyX )

[HQGTS74]

After seeing your collection Chris.

I can only imagine how big your fathers collection must be!!!


haha nah he only collects 1:1s..;). I got into collecting myself:D
Chris

[minh427]

Welcome to the forum mate. I tried to stick to a theme but failed, its spreading rapidly.

[4runner]

I am really enjoying these pictures of model cars that you have posted. This forum is terrific, many people sharing the same love for diecast cars, each with their own theme or collection that they enjoy.

Have not looked forward to shopping so much in a long time.

Kris

[minh427]

I am really enjoying these pictures of model cars that you have posted. This forum is terrific, many people sharing the same love for diecast cars, each with their own theme or collection that they enjoy.

Have not looked forward to shopping so much in a long time.

Kris

How many do you have so far Kris?

[4runner]

How many diecast cars? Somewhere around 6 or 8. Plenty of small scale ones though.

[VE II]

So hitting up the shops tomorrow Kris? ;)

[wayno]

Dont forget the 1:18 f1 world champs.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v252/wayno.racen ut/IMGP1109.jpg

[4runner]

Impressive. And no tommorow won't be the day I go shopping for them, as I can't budget it right now. Hopefully within the fortnight and then I will be able to post up some pics, but by the looks of it, you would all probably have one of it in every colour anyway, Ha Ha.

Kris

[8hype]

good luck 4 runner.don't spend to much.it's good to keep to a theme.i collect 1:18 brock and lowndes, also 43 scale bathurst winners.it's so much cheaper to stick to a theme.there is way to many cars.

[4runner]

Yes, roughly I am thinking I will look at holdens from 1998 and Older, and the famous old Fords, coupled with my few favourite other cars, such as the BMW's, etc.

Can't wait. Are these models difficult to clean? The ones I have get a bit dusty, even if you use a plastic case the model occasionally will come out, and get dusty.

Kris

[Damage]

Welcome Kris. Hope you enjoy participating in the forum and the hobby. Plenty of resources here and a great bunch of guys, well most of us anyway...:D

[david5]

Hello Kris, look at getting a better internet plan too. You may end up spending time here. lol

David

[wayno]

Yeah, it just sorta draws you in! :D

[VE II]

Yes, roughly I am thinking I will look at holdens from 1998 and Older...

Re cleaning - normally an occasional light dust with a microfibre/soft cloth is enough, but you can occasionally add in a little liquid - theres diecast cleaning kits available - when you want to know more just ask and a few of us will point u in the right direction... and others... welll.... :rolleyes:

Not F1 cars sorry Wayno, but maybe something of interest - Biante's new VK commodores - silver and white available, with a blue coming out and the red vl also due for an 08 release.
Also - Bmw 335i with retractable roof - verrrrry coool
http://www.biante.com.au/product_19756.htm

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn50/mattyharwo od/Holden%20Collection/Road%20Cars/VK%20SS%20Commo dore/VKSS-004.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn50/mattyharwo od/Holden%20Collection/Road%20Cars/VK%20SS%20Commo dore/VKSS-011.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn50/mattyharwo od/Holden%20Collection/Road%20Cars/VK%20SS%20Commo dore/VKSS-014.jpg

[Leigh]

What did I say? its started already...

I've never cleaned a model...if you have the right setup they don't get dusty:D Those of mine on display come out of the cabinets on the odd occasion too.

[Thunder]

Welcome to "The Biante Family", Kris.
The members here are friendly and have a wealth of knowledge to offer :rolleyes::D.
Look forward to reading your future posts.

Cheers.

[Holdennumber1]

haha thanks mate, yeh its growing a bit tooo quickly. Need another cabinet. By the way nice pic with Skaife mate! Hope u had a good time at Bathurst. Dad said we might go next year. Maybe we can catch up..
Chris Thanks. Also, I'm sure we could catch up if you go to Bathurst next year. :)
And Matt, do you know when the Red Brock VL's are going to be released? I want one to put next to my Walkinshaw, but I was hoping they would be a while so I can start saving up.
And last of all, 4runner, god luck with collecting diecast cars. :) I hope it brings you as much enjoyment as it brings me.
Cheers,
Thomas

[Thunder]

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z257/iluvnorks/ P1010413.jpg

That is one hot looking SL/R lionking.

[lionking]

Cheers mate.. :D

[Brasha]

Then, on top of the cost of the models, you have to fork out for a decent cabinet to display them in.

So when you have 10 or so cars you outlay 100's or even 1000's of dollars for a cabinet to display them in. You dont buy too big a cabinet because you only have a "few" cars to display.

Anyway you get it home and set it up and you think it looks great. "That was money well spent" you think to yourself.

But............................................... ....

You keep buying more and more models, usually at a faster and faster rate. Pretty soon the cabinet is full, and its time to get a bigger better even more expensive one.

And so it goes on and on................................................ .

[HQGTS74]

Thomas, the Red VL is expected in December. And the Blue VK end of next month i think. Getting these also..
Chris

[wayno]

I haven't even made the cabinet stage yet. :(

[pitcrew]

Thomas, the Red VL is expected in December. And the Blue VK end of next month i think. Getting these also..
Chris
Doh !!!!!!! more money.:)

[pitcrew]

I haven't even made the cabinet stage yet. :(
I have or had, Now must find or make a bigger cabinet and somewhere to put it, when will it end. But it's fun.:D

[wayno]

I've gone about this the wrong way. the cabinet stage for my collection will cost quite a bit and I think that's why i keep putting it off.
In the meantime more models arrive and the cycle goes on. :(

[Road Runner 72]

Just wanted to welcome the new guy!! WELCOME!! ;)

[Damage]

I wanted to say how great it is that somebody has gone to the trouble of introducing themselves instead of posting in a comp and disappearing.

My first 1:18 was the 95 Brock followed by the 78. Then I needed the 72 and so on. At least sticking to a theme (Brock) whilst a few are pricey, the number is finite. I'm waiting for the 87 with increasing impatience but the 2 Group A road cars should satisfy the urges until then.

Let us know what you end up collecting 4runner.

[Holdennumber1]

Thomas, the Red VL is expected in December. And the Blue VK end of next month i think. Getting these also..
Chris Thanks mate. :) And Biante, slow down, otherwise I'll still be buying this years releases in twenty years time. I still gotta get the Brock 84, the Austin, the jasmine yellow torana, the Sebring Orange monaro, the brock vk group 3 and I owe my dad $200!!
And Brasha, your statement is very true.
Cheers,
Thomas

[HQGTS74]

haha same here mate. Still need to get:
LX Torana A9X Jasmine Yellow
XW GTHO Diamond White
LC Torana purple
HJ GTS coupe
HQ GTS sedan in both colours
and many more..
then the Group As coming out by the end of this year!!
its crazy..
Chris

[Thunder]

That is sweet lionking. I love the photos of the Torri :)
Did you dump it and put the mags on it yourself?

[lionking]

Yeah mate.. Not fully professional but looks the part.. ;)