Have too many model cars scattered around the house? Get a model car display case to not just keep them organized and safe, but also to flaunt your exclusive collection.
Here I bring to you the best model car display cases and cabinets apt for your diecast automobiles, motorcycles, trains, and other vehicles.
Whether you want a wall-mount model car display shelf or a tabletop display case for a single car, you’ll find your pick in the list below.
Further, I’ll help you choose the product that fits your requirements. You’ll get to know about crucial factors you should evaluate while buying a model car display case, such as the size, color, material, and assembly components.
Let’s dive in to know more.
The 7 Best Model Car Display Cases at a Glance
Product Name / Product Image | Overall Ranking | Type, Material & Size | Highlights |
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Editor's Pick
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#1 – The Best Model Car Display Case: Hot Wheels (Editor’s Pick)f
Review
Hot Wheels display case is my first pick for model cars as it’s durable, spacious, easy to assemble, and affordable. You can either put it up on the wall or simply place it on the tabletop. Made from premium quality plastic, the frame looks classy and sturdy. The shelves can accommodate standard Hot Wheels and Matchbox diecast cars and trucks of 1/64 scale size.
Overall Ranking
9.5/10
Individual Rankings
- Build Quality: 9.5/10
- Size: 9/10
- Visual Appeal: 9.5/10
- Safety: 9/10
- Ease of Assembly: 10/10
- Value for money: 9/10
Stand-Out Features
- Display case size: 27 2.8 15 inches (L W H)
- Made from high-quality plastic, the base and the back are black, and the doors are transparent
- 6 shelves can store up to 50 Hot Wheels cars and trucks
- Arrives fully assembled, ready to hang on the wall or place on the countertop
- The package comprises the display case, one ‘55 Chevy Gasser toy car, two screws, and two plastic legs
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
No assembly required | Suitable only for Hot Wheels or 1/64 diecast cars and trucks |
Premium and sturdy frame | Complete plastic body |
Suitable for children | |
Affordable price tag |
Product Changes, Updates, or Alternatives
The Hot Wheels model car display case is an ideal product for those looking to display Hot Wheels or Matchbox collection or other 1/64 scale diecast cars and trucks. For 1/48 scale cars, you can consider DisplayGifts. For 1/32 to 1/18 scale cars, you can opt for Illumicase+ and Pioneer Plastics.
#2 – The Best Wall-Mounted Model Car Display Case: DisplayGifts
Review
DisplayGifts should be your choice for a wall-mounted model car display cabinet. The case looks elegant in a black finish and gold-plated latches. It can accommodate 1/64 to 1/43 scale toy cars. Every alternate shelf is removable. Hence, you can create more space for collectibles like action figures and glasses. Keep in mind the DisplayGifts is only for the wall, not for the tabletop.
Overall Ranking
9.4/10
Individual Rankings
- Build Quality: 9.5/10
- Size: 9/10
- Visual Appeal: 9.5/10
- Safety: 9/10
- Ease of Assembly: 10/10
- Value for money: 9/10
Stand-Out Features
- Display case size: 16 3.25 26.5 inches (L W H)
- 11 shelves, the top row is 2.2 inches high, and the remaining 2 inches high
- 5 removable shelves, each one in between two fixed shelves
- Made from clear acrylic glass panel door, solid wood on all sides, and felt lining as the black base
- Hinged door with two gold-plated latches
- Two saw-tooth hangars on the back side
- The package comprises the display case and wall-mount hardware like screws and saw-tooth hangars
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
Premium black finish | Only for wall mounting |
Removable shelves ensure adjustable height for collectibles of varying sizes | The price is slightly on the higher side |
Frame made from solid wood |
Product Changes, Updates, or Alternatives
DisplayGifts acrylic display case is available only in black color. It can easily fit model cars of scale 1/64 to 1/43. If you’re looking for a display case exclusively for 1/64 toy cars, either buy Hot Wheels or the JACKCUBE. For 1/32 and 1/18 scale cars, Illumicase+ and Pioneer Plastics are my top choices. For 1/24 scale cars, kivcmds is a wise choice.
#3 – The Best Model Car Display Case with LED Lights: Illumicase+
Review
Illumicase+ is a standalone model car display case embedded with an array of LED lights on the top panel. The mirrored base and the background further enhance the sparkling effect of lights on the model cars. Illumicase+ has the potential to uplift the aesthetics of your interiors. Flaunt your favorite model car of any size – 1/64, 1/48, 1/32, 1/24, or 1/18 scale – and let onlookers appreciate your purchase of the LED display case.
Overall Ranking
9.2/10
Individual Rankings
- Build Quality: 9.5/10
- Size: 9/10
- Visual Appeal: 10/10
- Safety: 7.5/10
- Ease of Assembly: 8/10
- Value for money: 10/10
Stand-Out Features
- Display case size: 14.2 6.9 7 inches (L W H)
- Suitable for 1/64, 1/48, 1/32, 1/24, and 1/18 scale model cars
- Two mirrors, one at the back and one at the base
- USB cable for power supply, Type-C connectivity
- LED lights panel on all four sides at the top
- Provision to stack boxes on top of each other
- The package comprises acrylic glass panels, mirrors, posts, and a USB cable
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
Stunning LED array and mirror display | Assembly can be a task for some buyers |
Compatible with model cars of varying sizes | Available only in one size and color |
Stackable |
Product Changes, Updates, or Alternatives
Illumicase+ is a dazzling model car storage box with LED lights and a mirrored back, suitable for the majority of diecast model cars. However, it’s available in only one color and size. If you want a box that can hold multiple cars, check out DisplayGifts. If your preference is a minimal model car display case, Pioneer Plastics is the one for you. It’s available in different sizes.
#4 – The Best Large Model Car Display Case: JACKCUBE
Review
JACKCUBE is one of the best-selling model car display cabinets with 56 compartments for 1/64 scale cars. It can easily accommodate your Hot Wheels, NASCAR, and Matchbox cars. The mirrored back highlights the otherwise hidden side of the cars kept in the box. If you’re searching for a large-sized model car display case at an affordable price tag, place your bet on JACKCUBE without a second thought.
Overall Ranking
8.8/10
Individual Rankings
- Build Quality: 8/10
- Size: 10/10
- Visual Appeal: 8/10
- Safety: 8/10
- Ease of Assembly: 10/10
- Value for money: 9/10
Stand-Out Features
- Display case size: 24.61 2.05 13.78 inches (L W H)
- 56 compartments for 1/64 diecast cars
- An acrylic glass panel on the front and acrylic panels covered in carbon fiber vinyl wrap on the sides and the back
- Mirror in the background
- Hinged door with a knob and magnetic closure at the bottom
- Suitable for keeping on the tabletop or hanging on the wall
- The package comprises a display cabinet, wall tooth hangars, and screws
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
Comes fully assembled | No door lock or latch |
Attractive and spacious | Cars may not fit properly in compartments |
Affordable price tag |
Product Changes, Updates, or Alternatives
People prefer JACKCUBE for showcasing their 1/64 scale car replicas. However, alternatives such as Hot Wheels and DisplayGifts are also quite popular amongst buyers. If we consider designer model car cases, Outland Models is an option you can buy for your 1/64 toy cars.
#5 – The Best Acrylic Model Car Display Case: Pioneer Plastics
Review
For buyers who want a minimalist model car display case, nothing beats Pioneer Plastics. Made completely from transparent acrylic panels on all sides, Pioneer Plastics is the most affordable display case that renders maximum transparency for clear visibility. Beveled edges add a stylish touch to the design. You can use Pioneer Plastics to display collectibles other than just cars. Stack one upon another, keep it horizontally, or vertically – use it as per your convenience.
Overall Ranking
8.8/10
Individual Rankings
- Build Quality: 8/10
- Size: 9/10
- Visual Appeal: 7.5/10
- Safety: 8/10
- Ease of Assembly: 10/10
- Value for money: 10/10
Stand-Out Features
- Display case size: 9 4.375 4.125 inches (L W H)
- Suitable for 1/24 scale model cars, also available in various sizes for 1/18, 1/32, and 1/64 cars and trucks
- Made from transparent acrylic glass on all sides, beveled at the edges
- No assembly is required, except inserting the base panel to complete the display box
- Made in the USA
- Use it horizontally for cars or vertically for figurines
- Stackable (only horizontally and not vertically)
- The package comprises the acrylic display case and bumpers
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
User-friendly and easy to assemble | Removing the base panel can be a trouble for some users |
The stackable feature allows you to join multiple cases | Holds only one or a few cars |
One of the most affordable display cases |
Product Changes, Updates, or Alternatives
Pioneer Plastics offers model car display cases in various sizes – 1/18, 1/24, 1/32, and 1/64 scales. Buy as many as you want based on the types of toy cars you own. Pioneer Plastics display boxes are sold in packs as well. For example, you can buy a pack of 12 cases at a hefty discount. And in case you prefer a transparent acrylic display case with a mirrored base, Pioneer Plastics has got you covered.
#6 – The Best Model Car Display Case for Collectibles: kivcmds
Review
kivcmds is not your regular display box for diecast cars. It’s different from the league due to its spectacular design, HD prints, premium quality material, and availability in various shapes and sizes. Made from solid wood and high-quality acrylic, the kivcmds model kit is perfect for your 1/24 scale cars, whether it’s a LEGO car, NASCAR diecast car, or any other muscle car. It looks stunning from every angle, provided you devote time and effort to bring all the pieces together, as shown in the instructional video.
Overall Ranking
8.6/10
Individual Rankings
- Build Quality: 9.5/10
- Size: 10/10
- Visual Appeal: 10/10
- Safety: 8/10
- Ease of Assembly: 5/10
- Value for money: 8/10
Stand-Out Features
- Display case size: 15.5 9.2 14.9 inches (L W H)
- 3-tier coffee shop parking set up for 1/24 scale model cars and trucks
- UV laser prints on acrylic panels simulate a realistic appeal
- Front acrylic panels slide open and close, side panels are fixed
- LED light connection with switch and batteries provided to light up every tier
- The base panel is made from solid wood
- Detailed instructional video provided for ease of assembly and installation
- The package comprises acrylic panels, wooden base panels, LED lights, and assembly hardware
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
Stunning design and premium quality | Assembly can be a pain |
All assembly components provided | LED lighting is dim |
Available in different designs and types |
Product Changes, Updates, or Alternatives
kivcmds is a theme-based model car display stand. Besides the coffee shop parking setup, you can opt for a 3-tier and 4-tier vehicle repair display stand. These three variants are for 1/24 scale cars. The kivcmds display case is available for 1/18 and 1/64 scale cars as well. Further, Gemutlich is one alternative to kivcmds. However, Gemutlich can only accommodate a few cars, not as many as kivcmds.
#7 – The Best Model Car Display Case for Diecast Toys: Outland Models
Review
Outland Models, my last pick in the list of best display cases for diecast cars, is a stylish car showroom theme-based display stand for 1/64 scale model cars. Made from high-quality ABS, a kind of plastic, Outland Models looks stunning on a tabletop. The model kit is easy to assemble for both children and adults. Besides cars, you can use the case to display other diecast toys like action figures.
Overall Ranking
8.5/10
Individual Rankings
- Build Quality: 9/10
- Size: 8/10
- Visual Appeal: 9/10
- Safety: 5/10
- Ease of Assembly: 8/10
- Value for money: 8.5/10
Stand-Out Features
- External dimensions: 11.69 7.48 3.07 inches (L W H)
- Made from ABS, a durable and high-quality plastic form
- Suitable for cars and trucks of 1/64 scale
- Easy to assemble components, just snap them up to set up the structure from scratch
- Perfect playstation for kids
- The package comprises display case components
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
Designer display station available at a reasonable price | Safety is a concern |
Perfect for kids and adults | No acrylic panels on the windows and doors of the building |
Easy to assemble and maintain |
Product Changes, Updates, or Alternatives
Outland Models is a one-of-its-kind display case for race cars of 1/64 scale size. It comes only in one color and size. Some of the alternatives that come closest to Outland Models are kivcmds, Yamazaki, and Gemutlich. These can store cars and trucks of varying sizes. However, you’ll have to pay much more than what you’ll be paying for Outland Models.
Choosing the Best Model Car Display Case: Our Review Factors & Criteria
While buying a model car display case, one should evaluate multiple factors. One mistake and you’ll end up buying the wrong product. To help you with your purchase, I’ve compiled a detailed guide on how to buy a model car display case. It’ll help you choose the best display cabinet for your diecast cars. Check it out.
Model Car Size
The selection of a display case begins with the size of the model car you possess. Mostly, the case is designed to hold a single car or multiple cars of a particular size.
For example, the JACKCUBE display case can only hold 1/64 scale model cars. The compartments in shelves are spacious enough to store 1/64 diecast cars, but not bigger car models.
Some display cabinets are compatible with cars of different sizes. DisplayGifts, for example, can accommodate cars ranging from 1/64 to 1/43 scale size.
Hence, go for model car display cases that can hold and showcase your collection of cars and trucks most elaborately.
Display Case Build, Type, and Size
The next factor to evaluate is the display case – its build, type, and size.
Most diecast car display cases are made from acrylic panels (transparent and opaque), engineered or solid wood, ABS, and alloys. You can consider any, whether it’s a clear acrylic display case with a plastic base or a wooden display shelf with a glass door. Just ensure the frame is strong enough to endure falls and knocks and that the display is clear.
Next comes the display case type. Depending on whether you want to keep the case on a tabletop or hang it on the wall, choose a suitable model car display case. Some cases are meant for both scenarios. Hot Wheels display case is an example.
The display case size is directly influenced by the number of cars in your possession. As the count of cars increases, the size of the display shelf also increases proportionally. For example, the tabletop display case is sufficient for a single car. Whereas for a collection, you require a display cabinet having multiple shelves.
Safety
It’s crucial to keep the case and your cars safe from theft, damage, and dust. Maybe you can’t tick all safety parameters, but try to cover as many as you can.
The majority of the model car display cases have a door with a magnetic closure or a latch but lack a lock. Hence, anyone can fiddle with your cars. Some of the standalone display boxes are closed from all sides. Your cars are safer in these boxes.
While wall-mounted cabinets are least prone to damage, tabletop display cases are at the maximum risk. Therefore, select a display case based on the footfall and if there are children and pets at home.
Enclosed model car cabinets keep dust and dirt out. So if you’re not accustomed to regular cleaning, consider a display case closed from all sides or a display cabinet fitted with a door. The open ones, like the Outland Models, are suitable if cleaned regularly.
Ease of Assembly
Not everyone is comfortable assembling components to set up a model car display case. Therefore, check whether the product needs to be assembled from the scratch or if it comes partially or fully assembled.
Also, see if the seller provides a detailed instruction manual or a video, along with the assembly hardware, to help you assemble the display case step-by-step.
Accessories
The package comprises accessories along with the display case. These accessories may either help you enhance the case’s aesthetics or its functionality.
For example, Hot Wheels display case accessories include legs and screws. Similarly, Pioneer Plastics provides bumpers in the package.
Go for products that come with accessories and hardware. It’ll help you save money you’d otherwise spend on procuring additional items.
Value for Money
It’s a bad idea to buy a model car display case just because it looks stunning. Your selection should be based on the model cars, display case features, and your budget.
Decide how much you want to spend before reviewing the diecast car display cases. Then see if all of your cars will fit in the case. Lastly, ensure you get the best value for money.
For example, kivcmds is a value-for-money product as it’s made from premium quality material, comes with required accessories and hardware, and houses a few 1/24 scale model cars.
The Model Car Display Case Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Diecast Car Display Case For You
Here I provide you with the best display case recommendations based on popular model car sizes. If you do not want to hassle with various factors you need to consider while selecting a diecast car display case, just have a look at the following recommendations. However, ensure you know the size of the model cars you want to put on display.
Model Car Display Cases for 1/18 Scale Cars
1/18 scale model cars are one of the largest toy cars people have in their collection. Diecast car makers, like AUTOart, mostly deal in 1/18 model cars.
Since these cars are fairly large in comparison to other toy automobiles, the acrylic display showcases designed for these cars are standalone products.
My top picks for 1/18 scale diecast cars are Illumicase+, Pioneer Plastics, and kivcmds. Gemutlich is also an option that is not on the list.
Interestingly, these display cases can be used to store smaller cars as well. However, 1/18 model cars won’t fit with other cars.
Model Car Display Cases for 1/24 Scale Cars
1/24 scale diecast cars are next in line after 1/18 scale size cars. Most of the trucks and vintage cars are usually of 1/24 scale.
My top picks for 1/24 scale automobiles are kivcmds, Illumicase+, and Pioneer Plastics. While kivcmds can hold a few cars, Illumicase+ and Pioneer Plastics can display only one car. Besides these, you can also consider DisplayGifts and Yamazaki. Both can store multiple cars.
Model Car Display Cases for 1/32 Scale Cars
1/32 scale is also quite common amongst model car enthusiasts. You’ll mostly find vintage cars, trucks, and agricultural vehicles of this size.
My top picks for 1/32 scale diecast model vehicles are Illumicase+, Pioneer Plastics, and Gemutlich.
These can hold up to a few cars. And all of these are tabletop display cases. There aren’t many wall-mounted display case cabinets available for 1/32 scale diecast cars.
Model Car Display Cases for 1/64 Scale Cars
You’ll find 1/64 scale model cars everywhere. Kids and adults are fond of 1/64 race cars of Hot Wheels, Matchbox, NASCAR, Auto World, and other brands. Hence, a lot of options are available for these cars.
My top picks comprise Hot Wheels display case, DisplayGifts, JACKCUBE, kivcmds, and Outland Models.
These display cases can hold multiple cars. To keep a few cars on display, you can consider Illumicase+ and Pioneer Plastics.
Model Car Display Cases for Other Scale Cars, Motorcycles, Trains, Planes, and Trucks
Lastly, we have display cases for model cars of other scales like 1/36, 1/43, 1/48, 1/55, and 1/72. However, these are not so popular.
You can consider DisplayGifts and Hot Wheels for model cars of 1/43 to 1/72 scale size. Illumicase+ and Pioneer Plastics are suitable for cars ranging from 1/18 to 1/72 scale size.
People who have motorcycles, trains, planes, trucks, and agricultural vehicles in their collection also want a display cabinet that can accommodate all types of vehicles including cars. For them, Illumicase+, kivcmds, Yamazaki, and Pioneer Plastics are practical choices.
The Final Thoughts: Order a Model Car Display Case Now to House your Diecast Automobiles
Clear the traffic jam and line up your diecast cars in a sequence. Get a suitable model car display case based on the suggestions listed in this post.
All products discussed here are unique, useful, reliable, and offer the best value for money. As per your requirements and budget, you can buy a tabletop display case, a wall-mounted cabinet, or a designer model car display stand.
In case you have any queries, feel free to get in touch. I’ll try my best to provide the most practical solution to your problem.