Wiking got its start as a provider of vehicles for HO and N-scale model railroads. And they still remain devoted to that market, but also so much more. Their expansion into collector territory with a continued focus on their roots makes Wiking the Model Car Hall of Fame 2024 Model Car Brand of the Year.
In their early days, the cars were well-proportioned models of common European cars and trucks. The bodies were a single piece with windows molded in color. They might have a silver or gray chassis with bumpers and single-piece axle/tire combinations. With a little work, a modeler could make them a bit more realistic.
The 1960s saw the addition of separate transparent windows, and the ’70s Wiking cars got interior details. Prices stayed in line with their old offerings, which meant modelers could get better results with less hard work.
In the 1980s, the company was bought by Siku, and the detail took a huge leap in quality. Today, Wking cars are well-detailed small models aimed more towards collectors, but more suitable than ever on model railroads. Their offerings still skew heavily towards German marques, with contemporary and vintage cars represented equally.
Several Wiking models have been nominated for MCHOF awards in different categories for 2024. Add in Siku’s nominations, and the company had a banner year.
With parent company Siku sharing larger scale offerings, Wiking can still concentrate on those smaller scales in ways that few other companies do. For their continued march towards higher quality for collectors, Wiking is the Model Car Hall of Fame Model Company of the Year for 2024.
The Model Car Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was held at the International Toy Fair in Nuremberg, Germany, on January 30, 2025. Thanks to everyone at Spielwarenmesse for having us as a part of their event.
