Minichamps

File:Alfa 155 DTM Minichamps.JPG

Alfa Romeo 155 V6 TI DTM 1995 by Minichamps.

Minichamps is a die-cast car producer founded as Paul's Model Art GmbH in 1990 in Germany. The first Minichamps diecast model was created in 1990 (scale 1/43): Audi V8, driver Hans-Joachim Stuck, German Touring Car Champion 1990. The company officially changed its name to Minichamps GmbH in 1996. It produces die-cast models of the following categories: Formula One, Racing cars, Street Cars, Motorcycles, Trucks & Buses, Military vehicles. The excellent quality of Minichamps' die-cast models has been appreciated not only by car manufacturers, many of whom, like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche and BMW, have entrusted Minichamps with the production of official car replicas, but also by model car collectors. In fact some of their 1/43 scale models are amongst the most sought after and most expensive die-cast cars. Maybe the best example is the McLaren F1 GTR West Promotion model made by Minichamps as a promo for the West cigarette company and which trades for well over $1000 on ebay. Another rare item produced by Minichamps was the Michael Schumacher Benetton B195 #17 which was recalled after an error was found: it has been known to fetch over £1000.

A small line of 1:64 models was introduced but later discontinued. The line was called "Micro Champs" and included a series "Michael Schumacher", "McLaren", but were sold separately as well.

Recently, the company has been authorized to produce a 1:43 scale replica of the Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe.

External links

• Official website
• Minichamps UK
• Minichamps on ToyPediA
• The McLaren F1 GTR by Minichamps
• Minichamps 1:12 Bikes