Model Universe

Model Universe, online store for diecast cars and scale models

Model Universe is a UK-based online store dedicated to selling diecast cars and scale models. Its catalogue brings together thousands of diecast and resin references, with particular focus on cars, Formula 1 and motorsport, in 1:8, 1:12, 1:18, 1:43 and 1:64 scales. The company presents itself as "The Home of Model Cars" and operates with international shipping.

History: from Legendary Models to Model Universe

The project began in 2020 under the name Legendary Models, driven by a 15-year-old founder with a passion for model cars. The first model sold was an AUTOart 1:18 Lancia Delta S4 in red, now discontinued by the manufacturer. As the business grew, the range was expanded and in 2022 it was rebranded as Model Universe, also adding miniature railways, Scalextric, model kits and radio control. In 2024 the company decided to focus exclusively on diecast cars.

Catalogue and available scales

The store organises its range by product category and by scale. Featured sections include race cars, road cars, Formula 1 models, trucks and display cases. The scales sold are 1:18, 1:12, 1:43 and 1:64, as well as references in 1:8 and 1:24. The catalogue includes both diecast and resin models, with examples of brands and series such as Minichamps, LookSmart, Ixo, Solido, WERK83, AUTOart, Kyosho, MCG, Cult Scale, BBR, GT Spirit, Spark, Otto Mobile, GP Replicas and Norev.

Featured brands and models

Among the references visible on the site are competition and road models such as the Minichamps 1:18 Porsche 911 (993) Cabriolet and Turbo, the LookSmart 1:18 Ferrari SF-25 of Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, the Ixo Porsche 963 winner of the 2025 24 Hours of Daytona, the Ford Mustang GT3 from the 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans, the WERK83 Mazda 787B winner of the 1991 Le Mans, the Solido 1964 Aston Martin DB5, the Williams Renault FW14B of Nigel Mansell, the Spark Mercedes-AMG Petronas W15 of Lewis Hamilton, the 1:24 McLaren MCL35M of Lando Norris and the Kyosho 1:12 Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34). There are also models inspired by film and television, such as the Chevrolet Impala from "Supernatural", the Ford Gran Torino from "Starsky & Hutch" or the Kenworth W295 from "Smokey and the Bandit".

Purchase and shipping conditions

The store offers next-day shipping and free delivery in the UK on orders over £75, with a cost of £4.50 for orders below that amount. For orders over £200, UK shipping is free and £3.50 below that threshold. It also ships internationally with taxes and duties prepaid, with no surprise charges. The company applies a 30-day returns policy and a price match promise against UK-based competitors. It also offers interest-free instalment payment plans through PayPal and a loyalty programme with redeemable MU points.

Customer service and ratings

Model Universe uses reinforced packaging with sturdy boxes, quality tape and shock protection. The company states that it is rated "Excellent" on Trustpilot and has a loyalty programme for regular customers.