RESIN vs DIECAST – Can you spot the differences? – Koenigsegg Featurette
Spoilt for choice:
Do you still remember the Agera R? It wasn't even that long ago that Koenigsegg unveiled its flagship model. At the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, the Agera R turned the eyes of horsepower fans and even took the crown as the most powerful super sports car at the show. We've been there live in 2011 and were absolutely thrilled by the latest creation from Christian von Koenigsegg 14 years ago.
However, with its 1115 hp, the Koenigsegg was narrowly beaten by the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport (1200 hp). The price of 1.2 million euros at the time was comparatively "favourable" when you consider how expensive today's hypercars from Koenigsegg are. Whether Regera, Gemera or Jesko: for 1.2 million you would only get half the car, for better or worse. Exactly the same price question but in a completely different category are the Koenigsegg Agera R adaptations in 1:64 scale. In addition to many other vehicles, the Agera R can be difficult to decide what to include in the collection. The diecast model from Hot Wheels or Maybe something more specialised like the resin model from VMB64? If you're in the model car business, you've probably heard the words DIECAST and RESIN before. In this article we provide you with the most important information, differences, advantages and disadvantages of diecast and resin models. In the end, you can decide for yourself which model variant is more suitable for you. We have also prepared a video for you on this topic, so take a look at our YouTube channel:
Diecast Models explained:
The word diecast can be found everywhere in the model car sector. This term has nothing to do with dying, but with the meaning of the materials. A die-cast toy (also spelled diecast, or die cast) is a toy or a collectible model produced by using the die-casting method of putting molten lead, zinc alloy or plastic in a mold to produce a particular shape. Such toys are made of metal, with plastic, rubber, glass, or other machined metal parts. Die-cast toys were first produced early in the 20th century by manufacturers such as Meccano (Dinky Toys) in the United Kingdom, Dowst Brothers (TootsieToys) in the United States and Fonderie de prรฉcision de Nanterre (Solido) in France. The first models on the market were basic, consisting of a small vehicle body with no interior. In the early days, as mentioned, it was common for impurities in the alloy to result in zinc pest, and the casting would distort, crack, or crumble.
The later high-purity Zamak alloy avoided this problem. In 1968, Hot Wheels were introduced in the United States by Mattel to address the complaint that they had no line of toys for boys to balance their line of Barbie dolls for girls. Because they looked fast and were fast (they were equipped with a low-friction wheels/axles), Hot Wheels quickly became the most popular die-cast cars in the toy market, becoming one of the world's top sellers, challenging the popularity of Matchbox.
In short: a zinc alloy is used for the material. The die-casting process is used to pour molten metal into a mould under high pressure. This metal construction ensures great robustness and optimum resistance, because everyone knows how tough Hot Wheels cars really are. This robustness creates a heavy feel that automatically gives you an authentic and heavy feeling in your hand. Many diecast models, such as Matchbox, Hot Wheels or in this case Autobots Models with this wonderful Koenigsegg CCGT, have functioning doors, boots, headlights or, as here, removable bonnets to see the engine Details. The low production costs, higher production quantities (fewer limits), hinged elements and the robust construction make a diecast model very popular.
Resin Models explained:
Would you like a little more?
Resin models are becoming increasingly popular among collectors.
The word collector is decisive here, because these are no longer toys for children but clearly exhibits for adults.
Diecast models are often offered in specific categories, those for children and those such as the Hot Wheels Premium models, which are aimed more at the adult audience, from +14 as a rule.
Resin models are explicitly stated on the packaging as +18, as they are very fragile and do not fulfil a certain criterion, which is apparently important to many people: the wheels do not roll. Resin models are always bolted to a baseplate, which is often decorated to match the model. There are many with moulded leather, beautiful fabrics or carbon imitations in acrylic glass and a stylish packaging box.
It is also not uncommon for cleaning cloths to be supplied.
Resin models are made of plastic resin, are extremely light and are cast in silicone moulds to emphasise the details even more. Whether interior or details such as exterior mirrors, spoilers or windscreens - resin models can be used to perfectly reproduce the materials of the real vehicles. As in this case with the Agera R from VMB64 Model, where the matte white of the bodywork meets blue elements and carbon parts. The resin allows for extremely intricate and detailed components and surfaces and is significantly lighter than the metal of the diecast models. Due to the more complex process and lower tooling costs, they are often produced in very small numbers. This is proudly noted on the baseplates of the models with a plaque where the vehicle's limitation number and current numbering are engraved.
Which model is the right one for me?
Of course, as always, it's always up to you. If you are looking for a robust, mass-produced replica with a good feel and working parts for everyday fun or a wider collection, diecast models are the best choice. There are now so many manufacturers in the game that you are spoilt for choice as to which diecast model of a particular car is the right one. In addition to Hot Wheels, there are names like Inno64, MiniGT, Tarmacworks, Pop Race and many more! However, if you are looking for the very highest level of detail and exclusivity, and are prepared to pay a higher price for limited edition collector's items, you are more likely to opt for a resin model. Especially with your absolute dream cars, it's worth considering trying resin instead of diecast.
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