I have a few Best Of Show and KK models which are supposed to 1/18th, but are slightly larger than my older Signature and Maisto models. What has happened to 1/18th manufacturing?
The inaccuracy of scaling isn't new. My understanding in many instances, it's purposely done to capitalize on more efficient shipping. The 1966 Mattel Batmobile is smaller than it should be. Side-by-side comparisons pointed that out after Minichamps produced the Lincoln Futura. It was decidedly larger than the Mattel Batmobile. I've noticed the difference in size between the Mattel Batmobile and the AutoArt Black Beauty. I'm guessing the Batmobile is actually 1:19 scale.
The inaccuracy of scaling isn't new. My understanding in many instances, it's purposely done to capitalize on more efficient shipping. The 1966 Mattel Batmobile is smaller than it should be. Side-by-side comparisons pointed that out after Minichamps produced the Lincoln Futura. It was decidedly larger than the Mattle Batmobile. I've noticed the difference in size between the Mattel Batmobile and the AutoArt Black Beauty. I'm guessing the Batmobile is actually 1:19 scale.
The scale difference is obvious on the '66 Barris Batmobile when it's next to its origin, the Lincoln Futura.
I don't buy the it is done for more efficient shipping because most 1/18 scale diecast come in packaging that is much larger than it needs to be, a great example of superior packaging is the current release from ACME the 1965 Shelby GT350 R prototype "The Flying Mule" that 1/18 scale diecast used very efficient packaging compared to the packaging of most Ertl or Auto World 1/18 scale diecast as well as other manufactures.
Here is an example of the ACME packaging vs Ertl/Auto World packaging. I have a couple of peach tree (GMP) boxes that are boxes within boxes making them rather large.
@john3976 - You might be right about the packaging. I really wouldn't know as I was only repeating what I heard or read some years ago. However, the packaging explanation did make sense to me because it has been a consideration in some of my business ventures. Smaller packaging reduces space and, conversely, reduces shipping costs.
What do you think might be the reason for the smaller scales like the Mattel Batmobile or larger scales as mentioned in the O.P?
It's also possible that in a comparison of two cars, one may be just a bit overscale, rather than one always being considered underscale. Or both cars could be either a bit over or under scale. Measuring actual scale should probably be done with several accurate measurements, like wheelbase, overall length, overall width, etc.
I have had a couple of cars that were listed on their chassis as 1/19th scale. Like the accurate "farm scale" 1/16th size Highway 61 trucks, these models generally display quite well, even with 1/18th listed diecasts.
I have a few Best Of Show and KK models which are supposed to 1/18th, but are slightly larger than my older Signature and Maisto models. What has happened to 1/18th manufacturing?
Operative words here are, "Signature" & "Maisto." I wouldn't go so far as saying each are notorious for "under-scaling" but they have manufactured several "1/19 or 1/20" diecast replicas, such as their 1955 Imperial, 1956 Chrysler 300 and 1939 Ford, just to name a few.
What's the reason for scale differences (among ALL scales and MANY manufactures)? IMO, a long persistent problem (that makes a MANIAC out of me!!) caused simply by SLOPPY engineering. Modern technology, most notably, 3-D scanning/printing should, in theory, solve these scaling issues. Time will tell.
As far as "scaling to fit packaging," ... I do know that factually this was done with regard to 1/25 "promo-models" from the 1950's-1970's. Jo-Hann liked the idea of using the same-size-white-box, subsequently certainly larger size cars were purposely scaled own. One of the better known examples being the 1959 Cadillac Fleetwood.
This practice may have taken place during some 1/18 diecast production runs but I'm unaware of any specific or corroborated examples.
I tried to post a replay about the difference in scale size but when I hit add reply it said there was something wrong with the data and would not add the post.
I will say this because the other post was longer, but take the Exoto Shelby Daytona Coupes, while it only took Shelby American 90 days to produce the first Daytona Coupe Exoto says it took them 2 years to produce their 1/18 scale replica of the car.
the Matchbox Corporation...."All that fits is fit to box"
Right John, but these models are marketed as different scales. MB is not claiming that Chevy to be 1/18 scale. In fact, I believe that Suburban is a 1/24 model while that VW is obviously larger.
Maybe I`m easily confused....but they don`t make scale sizing overly straightforward
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