NASCAR Diecast Cars: Are they Worth it?
When talking about diecast, NASCAR would always come to mind. NASCAR model cars have had a devoted following since NASCAR’s inception in 1948. The reason is that NASCAR has always delivered quality models to its customers. Thus in this article, we are going to deep dive into the topic and find out more if these cars are really worth it.
Are Nascar diecast cars worth anything? NASCAR diecast cars are worth it if the collector prefers to collect based on the car’s driver. People collect and build NASCAR cars not because of the car itself but from their loyalty to the driver. Furthermore, their models have good attention to detail and quality.
We are going to talk a lot about NASCAR. Furthermore, I am also going to talk about their marketplace and Nascar cards. The reason for the cards is that you will find out later that NASCAR is driver-focused. Thus, you’re also going to see NASCAR cards being sold to collectors.
Are Nascar diecast cars worth anything?
What separates NASCAR from other brands is its interest in the driver. Thus, if a collector is looking for a model car that focuses on its driver, then NASCAR diecast is definitely worth it. Furthermore, it is one of the premium brands when it comes to diecast models and kits.
When we talk about quality, NASCAR is always on the list. Collectors of NASCAR models have two primary options: diecast cars or model kits.
Most diecast cars are found in mint condition in their original boxes and are preassembled, factory-produced miniatures made of metal.
On the other hand, kits consist of molded plastic pieces that must be assembled and decorated with decals over several hours.
The NASCAR model car landscape has changed in recent years due to the licensing fees that NASCAR imposes on model car makers.
Naturally, these costs have risen in tandem with NASCAR’s popularity, making model kits are more expensive to produce in comparison to diecast cars.
That is why manufacturers are inclined towards diecast models instead of model kits.
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Today’s NASCAR diecast collectors frequently consider the worth of their collection. Because purchasing a NASCAR diecast requires a significant financial investment.
Previously, you could buy a new collectible NASCAR diecast for $19, but now, a new 1/24 NASCAR diecast from Lionel (the current marketer of NASCAR diecast) will cost you $55 for the base ARC model and nearly $100 or more for the even more collectible RCCA Elite model.
When it comes to NASCAR, maker and year aren’t what makes it worthy.
NASCAR model car collectors are more loyal to the drivers, such as Dale Earnhardt, Jimmie Johnson, Brett Bodine, and others.
“People don’t build Chevrolet NASCARs, they build Dale Earnhardt NASCARs,” says model car collector and builder Les Smirle.
A driver’s loyalty to NASCAR is much stronger than a brand’s.” Because of this, the value of any NASCAR model is tied to its driver’s popularity.
The majority of collectors are drawn to cars from the 1950s, the ’60s, and the ’70s. However, some younger collectors are interested in cars from “The Fast and the Furious” franchise. In NASCAR models, 1/24 is the most common scale.
Recommended Read: Did you know that there are some NASCAR diecast cars that have been sold for thousands of dollars at auctions? If you’re interested in some Nascar diecast cars that are worth the money, please check this post: The Most Valuable Nascar Diecasts.
Is there a market for NASCAR collectibles?
Some of the notable markets for NASCAR collectibles are Diecast Registry, eBay, and Quality Diecast Toys. You can find numerous quality NASCAR collectibles in each of these marketplaces. Choosing one would greatly depend on the preferences of the buyer or seller.
These are the best places to find out the worth of your diecast collection and individual diecast cars; most importantly, potential sellers and buyers for your NASCAR collectibles.
Diecast Registry
This website is the pinnacle for racing diecast collectors worldwide, and every significant diecast collector uses this website.
DCR Members receive detailed information for each diecast in their collection. Sellers with a FREE bronze membership can list an unlimited number of diecasts on the For Sale page.
Furthermore, the FREE bronze membership enables buyers to shop for their next diecast purchase.
The best thing is that there are no listing fees or commissions when buying or selling diecasts on DCR. Buyers are directed to the seller’s PayPal account to complete the transaction.
You may visit DCR by clicking this link: DCR Website
eBay
If you’re not familiar with DCR, you’re probably relying on eBay as a resource.
It’s simple to look through the Completed Auctions and get a general idea of how much a particular diecast sells for.
There is no more efficient way to reach a global audience than through “eBay,” the world’s largest online auction platform.
Sellers can set up their own online store on eBay and list their products for sale to potential buyers through their own store.
However, be careful of the bait and switch on eBay.
You may visit eBay by clicking this link: eBay Website
You can find more marketplace for diecast models in another article I’ve made. Here is the link: Where can you see your diecast collection?
QDT—Quality Diecast Toys
Founded in 1984, QDT is a professional diecast toy buying and selling company.
This is another perfect place for buying and selling NASCAR diecast collectibles.
The QDT platform allows you to sell your diecast model collections at an affordable 22.5% of the sale price with no hidden fees.
Your product will be promoted in QDT until it is sold after you upload it.
Or, you can sell your Collections directly to QDT if you don’t want to go through this lengthy process.
Sign up on their website and send an email with a picture, description, and price of your diecast model. If your item(s) meet their quality standards and specifications, they will respond within 48 hours if they show interest.
You may visit QDT by clicking this link: QDT Website
What Nascar cards are worth money?
One of the Nascar cards that are worth it is the 1998 Maxx Charlotte Promo which was sold for $3386. However, most NASCAR cards would usually be worth around $100 – $300. This price will depend on its rarity, production date, and of course, the driver.
As mentioned earlier, collectors of NASCAR diecasts are more interested in drivers. That is why cards of the famous champion drivers are a lot hyped about among collectors.
According to 1/1 Cards, these are the 10 most expensive cards sold on eBay.
1. 1991 Traks #190 Autographs is sold for $240.
2. 2001 Press Pass Triple Burner Patches [100] is sold for $205.
3. 1996 Fleer Ultra Certified Autograph was sold in 2016 for $215 and in 2017 for $265. This year it has been sold for $208.
4. 1997 Wheels Race Sharks Shark Tooth Signature First Bite is sold for $229.
5. 1991 Maxx #196 Autograph with Davey Allison and Neil Bonnett is sold for $240.
6. 1992 Traks #A1 Dual Autograph with Richard Patty. This is sold for $250.
7. 1991 Press Pass Authentic Autograph. In 2015, it was sold for $153; in 2016, it was sold for $215; in 2017, it was sold for $265; and this year, it is sold for $255.
8. 1989 Maxx Racing #3 PSA 10. In 2018, it was sold for $178; in 2019, it was sold for $126; in 2020, it was sold for $184. This year it has been sold for $258.
9. 1988 Maxx with sticker [999]. This card is sold for $388.
10. 1998 Maxx Charlotte Promo #99B BGS 10 is sold for a whopping $3386.
And, these are the 10 most expensive Nascar Cards of Jeff Gordon sold on eBay in October 2018.
1. 2008 Wheels authentic Memorabilia Flag Chasers Patch #FC-3 [20] was sold for $144 in 2018.
2. 1991 Traks #1 PSA 10 was sold for $149.
3. 1998 Wheels High Gear Authentic Signature [50]. In 2018 it was sold for $153.
4. 2004 Press Pass Eclipse Teammates Autograph With Jimmie Johnson [25] was sold for $165.
5. 2008 Press Pass Legends Signatures Series Autograph Patch #LS-JG [25] was sold for $200.
6. 2007 Press Pass Eclipse Teammates Autograph With Kyle Busch And Jimmie Johnson [25] was sold for $200 as well.
7. 1994 Traks Autographs #A PSA 10 was sold for $200 too.
8. 1987 World of Outlaws #52PSA 10 was sold for $270.
9. 1988 World of Outlaws #54 PSA 10 was sold for $300.
10. 2012 Press Pass Ignite Supercharged Signatures Quad Patch [5] was sold for $330.
Source
“Only the things I love”
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So, here are the things I love when taking care of my Diecast Models.
Cleaning the Models
The first we are going to talk about is cleaning the models.
Removing Dust
- Air Brush – For me, this is the best since it not just removes dust but you can use it in painting/clear coating.
- Air Duster – This is a good alternative to Airbrush
- Normal Brush – If you are short on budget, you can use a normal brush. However, make sure that the brush has soft bristles because there are some hard brushes than can cause scratches. That’s why I recommended a good brush that can do the job properly.
Cleaning and Shining Hacks
Well, here are some of my cleaning hacks for removing scratches, oxidation, and so much more.
- Removing Decal Adhesive – Use Goo Gone on those hard-to-remove decal adhesives. It works fast and works like charm!
- Waxing and Polishing – Here is something a lot of people don’t know. Waxing protects the clear coat and paint while polishing shines the model. Instead of buying it separately, use a 2 in 1 to save money. Get this instead.
- Beginner Wax – The wax I recommended earlier is good and provides the best results based on my experience. But a beginner might have a problem especially if they’re not good at applying wax. Solid wax reaching hard to reach surface can be hard to remove. You have two choices here. One is to use a qtips to reach those surfaces, another is to use a liquid wax I recommended.
- Cleaning Wheels, Rubber, Plastic – Do not forget that rubber and plastic surface are quite different, especially in the cleaning process. Just wiping it down won’t do the job. That’s why I use Meguiar’s Vinyl and Rubber Cleaner and Conditioner. Works like charm!
- Make the Wheels Shine! – Making our models look good won’t be complete without tiny details such as shiny wheels! Do not forget this because however small this is, the difference can be as big as night and day.
- Remove Scratches Easily – Tiny scratches are not the end for your model. Here is a simple trick I’ve been using to make my models look scratch-free even without repainting. Use T-Cut.
Painting the Models
Painting Tools
Make sure when you paint models, have these ready.
- Tape – A tape is important if you are painting a straight line. Furthermore, it will prevent your paint to scatter on other parts. I recommend Tamiya Tape since it is really made for models. Furthermore, they stick really well preventing paint splatters.
- Brush (Beginner) – Find a good set of brushes to paint your models. Of course, you can opt for an airbrush but it’s quite expensive.
- Airbrush (Intermediate/Expert) – This will yield a significantly better result than an ordinary brush because you can easily spray the paint evenly. I recommend this if you know what you’re doing.
- Stand(Optional) – Stands are good because it can be hard to manually hold the models while painting. It is optional but in my opinion, the price is well worth it for the comfort it gives.
- Drop Cloths – Drop Cloths will protect your surroundings from the paint.
- Primer – The most common beginner mistake I see is painting models without any Primer. A primer will prevent imperfections such as bubbles or paint not sticking to your models. It is a small price to pay for quality results.
- Clear Coat – A clear coat will protect the paint of your models. This will make the paint last longer. Also, it is the one responsible for making your models shine.
Paints
Of course, you can’t do painting properly without paint. So here are the ones I recommend.
- Acrylic Paint – Good for beginners because it dries quickly. However, it doesn’t produce results as good as enamel paint.
- Enamel Paint – Provides a good quality finish and longer-lasting paint. However, it takes longer to dry and requires expertise to use.
Model Maintenance
Model Storage
- Simple Wood Cabinet – While it doesn’t let you display your models, wooden cabinets are good storage for these models. For one, they are not heat conductors which means that the temperature inside will remain constant and remain cool. Furthermore, they prevent light from reaching the models which can cause oxidation.
- Clear Cabinet with Lock – If you want to display your models, then I recommend this. It closes so dust won’t easily get to your models. I also recommend you don’t put more than 1 model in each compartment since metals are good conductors of heat.
Model Photography
So you want to show off your models to others? Well, I got you covered.
Here is my beginner-friendly model photography tutorial that teaches everything from taking pictures to the editing process.
You will also see me doing hands-on photography in that tutorial.
Here is the link: How to Take Pictures of a Diecast Model or Model Kit | Helpful Illustrated and Video Guide
