Tell us what this hobby means to you? 13 questions answered by you, Vinod Enka from Petaling Jaya, Malaysia

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1) What first got you collecting diecast? How long have you been collecting? What is your total model count as of today?

An unexplainable fascination with cars since childhood! I was even more fascinated when I saw realistic miniature versions of actual cars seen on the road. Naturally, I started collecting 1:64 models (mainly Matchboxes) since the age of 4 maybe (that’s about 24 years ago). As time went by, I acquired models in 1:43, 1:24, 1:18 and even 1:87 scales.

Despite over 2 decades of collecting, I’ve been a very casual collector, hence my model count remains small at 54 models (including those 1:64s).  As a child, I bought many Matchboxes, Corgis, Hot Wheels, Majorettes etc, however played with them so hard that only a handful remain till this day!

2) What was your first diecast or memory?

I really can’t remember THE first diecast, however one of the first would definitely be the Matchbox 1:64 BMW 535i (E34). Probably bought this sometime in 1989/90. It survived all the way to 1997, after which it gave way (again- due to how much I played with it!) Was a beautiful black sedan with a beige interior, details & proportions were spot on for such a small car. I was captivated by the E34’s aerodynamic profile back then, I think it was ahead of its time.

3) What is your favourite scale, and why?

This has to be the 1:18 scale, as it not only allows finer details, but does command a presence in your showcase. Having said that, 1:24 is also a great scale (if done nicely), however it doesn’t seem to be too popular these days. 1:43 seems to be around more.

4) What are some of your favourite models to date? Did you share any photos with us?

I have a very small collection, so that makes this a bit tricky J If I had to choose, it would be the above mentioned Matchbox 535i (miss that car) as well as my Bburago Ferraris (550 Maranello & F50). What makes this duo more precious now is the fact that Bburago no longer produces 1:18 Ferraris. I’ve included some photos of the Ferraris (and a few others).

5) Is there a model that has eluded you, a holy grail of sorts?

Nope.

6) What is your favourite brand/manufacture, and why?

During my teens I always shopped for Bburagos- as I thought they were affordable yet really fun to own. Bburagos were not always the most accurate models around, but their interiors and engine compartments were especially astounding. A generous sprinkling of chrome bits here and there certainly livened things up. Their attention to detail was always a step above Maisto- although the latter has stepped up since then. More recently, I’ve admired AUTOart, Kyosho & Minichamps, but prices have soared like property! Which brings me back to the budget brands- Maisto, Welly/FX etc. These players are certainly putting out some well-made models now compared to the past. The FX Aston Martin DB9 for example, is really nice. So in conclusion, no favourite brand, just anyone who does a good job for a good price.

7) Describe your current theme and what your overall goal is?

No particular theme at the moment. But I do intend to have a showcase that is airy, bright and timeless, something that blends into the home deco yet remain unique.

8) Do you display your collection? If yes, how?

At the moment, no (due to lack of space). However, prior to now I’ve always had my collection displayed in a highly customized bookcase called ‘The World of CARS’. I think I hear laughter.  You’re forgiven.  Essentially I themed it as a ‘showroom cum international auto show’ –  so that explains what you see below. It was also nice to have a ‘showroom in my bedroom’!

9) Do you have any other hobbies, passions or addictions?

Oh yes, definitely. Going to work, reading emails… haha! But really, I’ve got a nice job. As for my hobbies/interests, here goes: photography, 1:1 cars, architecture, technology, science, the usual. Plus, increasing my Bible knowledge is a priority.

10) What do you think about the diecast hobby as it stands today?

The way I see it, I’ll be happy if the diecast hobby is still alive & strong in 20 years time! The new generation of kids don’t seem to be into these things anymore, it just doesn’t make them tick I suppose. But then when you’ve spent much of your childhood with the latest smartphones, you’re probably more fascinated with the virtual world instead. It’s also a bit disconcerting, as I’ve seen some of my favourite diecast stores vanish due to lack of business. At least the online stores are still thriving I hope.

11) If you could change one thing about the diecast hobby what would that be?

The prices, definitely!

12) Do you modify cars? If yes, what are some examples?

Not sure if you’d call this modifying: using a silver pen to enhance certain bits of my cars (grills, interior bits, exhaust tips etc). I’ve also taken apart my now defunct 300 SL radio control car, and added faux wood to the interior by pasting some ‘wood strips’ cut from some magazine. Someone laughing again?

13) What is your 1:1 daily driver?

Ahh, interesting question. Which reminds me, it needs to be washed and waxed within the next 2 days. I drive a 2009 Proton Saga B-segment sedan. It’s a conservative yet smart looking ride in my eyes. Some trivia: Proton is a Malaysian car manufacturer, and currently owns British sports car maker Lotus.