Diecast car models are toys or collectible models produced with die casting techniques. The metal most commonly used is an alloy made of zinc and aluminum, also known as pot metal.

Today's models are so sophisticated you can take a close-up picture of one of them and most everybody who sees the picture will think it's the real thing. But there was a time, at the beginning of the 20^th century, when  models were very crude and expensive. Their sizes were not exactly scale sizes and the term scale model wouldn't fit them. But they had an advantage which is true even today: they were far less expensive than the original thing.

Technology and the development of the die casting technique allowed for the creation of a large variety of models. You can find classic cars, trucks, motorcycles and airplanes, as well as Nascar models, Formula 1 models and even

great construction models. The details are stunning. In most of the good models of cars and trucks you can open the doors and see the seats, the dashboard, stick shift and steering wheel or open the hood and see the engine in great detail. In some models you can even work the steering wheel and see the wheels turn. Other details are available like spare tires, shovels and axes, etc.

Prices are as varied as anything and you can find good models for $ 10 or even less, although the best quality products will set you back hundreds of dollars. In other words, if you're looking for an old truck, for example, you may have to pay for a model almost as much as you would pay for a real truck. But a cheap real truck would certainly have to be restored while the diecast model would be perfect.

There are many companies all over the world producing diecast models. Some are nothing but toys while others are real works of art. And if you can't afford to have the real thing maybe you can look for a model of the classic car or truck that you want. It certainly exsts and you may be able to get more than one. As a matter of fact you can build a complete collection of different diecast models of the same scale or different scales. It's really up to you and

it's a nice way to begin your walk towards a real classic car or truck.

Diecast models also offer the owner of a real classic car or truck the opportunity to own an exact replica of his (her) car or truck and use it as a decoration piece

over his (her) fireplace mantle or his (her) office desk. I have two replicas of a 1953 Chevrolet Pickup truck. They aren't exactly the same as my 1954 Chevy but they're close enough to confuse the people who don't know the difference. I got this model as a gift from a friend.

Classic car and truck models also serve as great gifts, helping your children or your grandchildren to develop the taste for classic cars and trucks.

Diecast models are also a good idea as a hobby. Once you start you may want to keep getting new models of cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, airplanes and so on. Little by little, without spending much you may be able to build a great collection to leave to your children and your grandchildren.After all, today's models are not only very faithful to the vehicles they represent but are also well built and can last a lifetime or even longer.