What fits at 1:43
Collectible diecast cars, rally and Formula 1 models, and railway layout vehicles.
| Real subject | Real size | 1:43 model |
|---|---|---|
| Formula 1 car | 5.5 m | 12.8 cm |
| Family sedan | 4.5 m | 10.5 cm |
| Classic Mini | 3.05 m | 7.1 cm |
| Human figure | 1.8 m | 4.2 cm |
Size comparison at 1:43
Relative model sizes at 1:43 (longest bar = largest model):
1:43 in mm, cm and inches
How common real-world sizes convert to 1:43 model size:
| Real size | Model (mm) | Model (cm) | Model (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 m | 23.3 mm | 2.33 cm | 0.916 in |
| 2 m | 46.5 mm | 4.65 cm | 1.83 in |
| 5 m | 116 mm | 11.6 cm | 4.58 in |
| 10 m | 233 mm | 23.3 cm | 9.16 in |
| 1 ft | 7.09 mm | 0.709 cm | 0.279 in |
| 6 ft (person) | 42.5 mm | 4.25 cm | 1.67 in |
Frequently asked questions
How big is a 1:43 model car?
A 4.5 m car becomes about 10.5 cm long at 1:43 (4.5 ÷ 43).
Why is 1:43 so common for model cars?
It grew from O-gauge model railways (around 1:43–1:48), so road vehicles were made to match the trains, and the size stuck for collectors.