The cheap end of the hobby

[GrahamS]

I'm a new member and I've been checking out the forums and topics,but It does seem to be more high-end models that I've come across so far.I don't collect the AutoArt and Minichamps models,as they're generally a bit on the expensive side(and yes I know you get what you pay for).My collection is mostly Bburago and Maisto versions.these days I like to source damaged ones and restore them,making pieces by hand where possible,and modifying other models.In fact I hope to post pics of my latest creation in the next few days;A heavily modified and likely very controversial 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO.

I am aware that there is probably a minor sect of collectors looking with scorn at us little people who buy the cheap(and nasty) versions of popular models,but I'm hoping there's a wider population who appreciate the work put in, regardless of who made it and the cost.

I'm still navigating the site, and I am enjoying what I've seen. And I look forward to interacting with you all.

[[KRAFTIG]]

Instead of "Cheap" let's call it the opening price point of scale models. From personal experience I but all brands as long as they serve a need and I like it. They serve a need to get one started in scale model collecting and something provide exceptional value, i.e Maisto Viper, Bburago Alfa Romeo 8C

Last Bburago I bought was the Ferrari 488 GB Signature piece, not bad for the money. As with any collector if you have a passion for a particular marque you always want the best detail available. I think the Signature line could be a welcomed addition, but it still requires refinement, also Bburago is real so at releasing additional subject matters.

[GrahamS]

Instead of "Cheap" let's call it the opening price point of scale models. From personal experience I but all brands as long as they serve a need and I like it. They serve a need to get one started in scale model collecting and something provide exceptional value, i.e Maisto Viper, Bburago Alfa Romeo 8C

Last Bburago I bought was the Ferrari 488 GB Signature piece, not bad for the money. As with any collector if you have a passion for a particular marque you always want the best detail available. I think the Signature line could be a welcomed addition, but it still requires refinement, also Bburago is real so at releasing additional subject matters.

Well put,the 'entry level' of the hobby as you might put it,and yes I admire the minichamps range of ford capris,and old escorts etc,but even when they turn up 2nd hand theyre still,to me,a bit on the pricey side.I spotted a huge collection in a topic earlier which a couple of members said were a waste of money,and I thought''hey kudos if you can afford it,and it sure beats spending your disposable cash on booze.It also gives you pleasure a lot longer than a night on the sauce''.It is purely coincidental that a scotsman stated the only thing a man would spend ready cash on was alcohol.

[johnhel]

And don't forget that burago was the first diecast for the most of us and that's how we catch the virus. Respect

[Marcel171281]

And don't forget that burago was the first diecast for the most of us and that's how we catch the virus. Respect

Exactly the reason i still own a lot of old bburago and maisto. It all started with these models 25-30 years ago.

It's the same as with old cars. We considder a 250 GTO the best of the best, but for todays standards is its actually not so good. A simple GTI will completely distroy it, in every single way. But we still adore a 250 GTO.

Same with the old models, compared to todays autoart, kyosho etc etc. But they still have there place in history, and they therefore still have there place on my shelfs, together with the modern stuff.

[groupCin1.43]

I am aware that there is probably a minor sect of collectors looking with scorn at us little people who buy the cheap(and nasty) versions of popular models,but I'm hoping there's a wider population who appreciate the work put in, regardless of who made it and the cost.

Hello Graham, welcome to DS.

I've come to believe that one of the joys of our hobby is the choices we have and how we may personalize our collections.

As for those that may "scorn", put them on ignore.

I myself have everything from a $20.00 Q-model of the Toyota 7 to a more recent purchase of a 1/18 Ignition RX-7 that is full resin, no opening parts and cost me well over $300 Canadian. I love em all!!!

What I don't have is the skills to mod my cars so more power to you.

[Cornucopiadiecast66]

Holly guacamole,

Have you guys seen the Maisto-Bugatti Chiron (in Blue)?

I am shocked on how far they've come for being an "entry level" car manufacture. Remember, for the price($30.00 -$50.00 on eBay) this car has opening parts, spring loaded shocks, a deploy-able rear wing, which is a lot more than some high-end manufactures can offer now.

I'm sure some of you fella's will eye-ball the car and find some flaws, but for Maisto/Bburgao to put this out for an "entry level" collector would put me in a happy place(because it did!).

So keep on, keeping on GrahamB.

[[KRAFTIG]]

Definitely great value for the $$... The last Viper they completed was damn pretty good too!

[Nicadraus]

Another good brand with nicer details and priced fair is Welly. Their models are "better" made than any Bburago & Maisto. Plus some of them have very, very similar casting to AUTOart models like the Murcielago, Diablo, Aventador & Huracan. Their Porsche 911 (RS), (964) turbo, 997, 991, 918, Pagani Huayra, Audi R8, just to name a few, are also very nice. Welly's "signature" brand is FX GT models. More details although a little bit pricier. But definitely in the price range budget.

Unfortunately Welly does not make Ferrari.

[Zondaracer]

I ditto that. I hardly buy expensive models. Welly, Revell and Maisto/Bburago are generally good enough for me. I have a few Autoarts and Kyosho in case of special models like the NSX, F40 and Huayra. But the biggest fun is what you do, take a cheap Maisto and detail it. Sometimes it is enough to strip it down, sand down the surface (usually very rough on a Maisto), adjust doors and opening parts, improve the stance and a proper repaint. Welcome to the forum and I hope to see many interesting modded cars from you.

[[KRAFTIG]]

Yes very true. No Ferrari and very few other models too. They were on a role a few years back, the Bentley and Aston Martin were a few of their greatest hits!

http://www.diecastsociety.com/review-we ... db9-coupe/

[Autobahn]

I'm planning on getting the Bburago Signature 488GTB and 458 Speciale models. Are they the best models available? Of course not, when each is available from BBR or MR. However, in terms of bang for the buck and overall value, I think Bburago and Maisto have come a long way from their humble beginnings. They could still use a bit of overall refinement to catch up with the likes of the now-defunct Hot Wheels Elite Ferrari series, but their prices are still significantly lower, even with Signature-level detail.

I actually picked up a basic 488GTB model at Sam's Club as a placeholder until I get the Signature model, and I was pleasantly surprised by how nice it was for just $14. The engine detail in particular was nice, better than some Aa or Minichamps engines if I may say so.

[[KRAFTIG]]

$14, LOL, quite amazing!

[Autobahn]

I know, right? It's tough to pass on any 1/18 model at $14, which explains why I have quite a few of those Maistos and Bburagos in my collection. It's really difficult to nitpick anything on a model that's so inexpensive!

[SPhilli911]

Maisto gets a lot of crap for being so cheap (at least some model car collectors don't take them seriously), but they're nice models! I used to grab them all the time at Sam's Club for around $10. Way I see it, they were the gateway for collecting 1/18 models for me. My first ever model was a Jaguar XJ220 I got at Sam's when I was real young and I got about 20 or so Maistos before moving up to the expensive stuff.