By: Patrick Karam
For some, collecting die-cast cars is just a childhood memory—those tiny 1/64 scale Hot Wheels and Matchbox models that raced across living room floors. But for a growing community across the Middle East and beyond, it’s a full-fledged obsession. A serious hobby. A passion that spans decades, demands attention to detail, and at times, costs thousands of dollars.
Die-cast collecting often begins with the humble 1/64 scale—a world of bright colors and exaggerated lines, perfect for a young gearhead’s imagination. But as the passion matures, so do the scales. The 1/43 becomes the go-to for rally fans and motorsport historians, thanks to brands like IXO, Spark, and Minichamps that nail the liveries, body lines, and even sponsor stickers down to the millimeter.
Move up to 1/24 and you enter a middle ground: big enough to display, affordable enough to collect in bulk. It’s the sweet spot for those who like detail but aren’t ready to sacrifice shelf space—or a month’s rent.
But for the serious collectors, the true jewel lies in the 1/18 scale. This is where art meets engineering. Brands like AUTOart, CMC, BBR, and Kyosho push the limits of craftsmanship with working suspensions, real leather interiors, carbon fiber textures, and engine bays so accurate, you’d swear they run on 98 octane. Some 1/18 models—especially limited editions or race-spec versions—can command prices north of $2,000 on the resale market. It’s no longer just a hobby—it’s an investment, a lifestyle, a museum in miniature.
Interestingly, the larger 1/12 scale, despite offering even more detail and presence, hasn’t enjoyed the same popularity. The reasons are simple: price, space, and availability. These giants are often reserved for ultra-rare supercars or Formula 1 icons, and only the most dedicated collectors make room for them—literally and figuratively.
In the region, the die-cast community is thriving. Collectors are sharing their finds, showcasing their setups, and even hosting private viewings. Among the names leading the scene is Billy Karam, holder of a Guinness World Record and known for one of the most jaw-dropping private model car collections on the planet—featuring everything from Dakar icons to Formula 1 grids, housed in a museum-like setting that any motorsport fan should pilgrimage to.
Others across Lebanon, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia are building themed displays—everything from JDM shrines to rally legends. It’s more than collecting; it’s storytelling in metal, plastic, and rubber.
And speaking of storytelling—stay tuned. I’ve been quietly building something of my own: a rally car collection that spans eras, disciplines, and dirt-stained legends. Group B monsters, WRC beasts, and some Lebanese icons you won’t see anywhere else. It’s almost ready… and trust me, it’ll be worth the wait.