The ERTL Company has been making realistic toy tractors since 1945, and since then the brand has become synonymous with farming and agricultural toys. The first toy tractor is often credited to Edwin Perkins, who made a small metal tractor in the 1920s to give away with the popular beverage Kool-Aid.
Since the 1940s, ERTL has become well-known for producing incredibly authentic and detailed farm toy replicas and has been fundamental in the growth of the farm toy industry.
In the world of farm toys for kids, all tractors are not created equal, and size and scale matter.
ERTL manufactures a range of incredibly realistic toy or model tractors in a range of different sizes that appeal to different consumers. To understand the scale it comes down to the ratio of the model’s size in relation to the real-life counterpart. For example, a 1:18 toy tractor would be 1/18th the size of the actual tractor, and a 1:50 toy tractor would be 1/50th.
To put it simply, the bigger the number after the colon, the smaller the model. The same applies to any farm toys, if a toy is 1:16, it means that it’s 1/16th the size of an actual horse, an actual spade, an actual fence, etc.
For consumers, it’s important to understand the scale so that you purchase the right accessories to integrate into your model or play experience. For example, if you purchase a 1:32 scale tractor, you’d need to buy the 1:32 scale tractor accessories.
The choice of scale depends on individual preference, display space, and the preferred level of detail.
ERTL has an incredibly diverse range to suit all markets but the most common scale for ERTL farm toy tractors are:
1:16 Scale: This larger scale is commonly used for ERTL's Precision Series farm toys because of the level of detail needed. This scale is very popular among collectors.
1:32 Scale: ERTL has produced many farm toys and vehicles in 1:32 scale and because it allows for more intricate detailing.
1:64 Scale: This means the model is 1:64th of the size of the original vehicle. It is a popular scale for ERTL's collectible farm toys and vehicles and is used for small replicas.
So, in short, 1:16 is bigger than 1:32, and 1:64.
Now that you understand the scale, what does this actually mean in terms of relative size? Well, in terms of tractors here are some approximate measurements to guide you– although you should always look at the packaging for the exact size. These scales also apply to the popular John Deere tractors.
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1:16 Scale Tractors |
A 1:16 ERTL tractor is approximately 9-12 inches, 23-30cm, long, and 5-8 inches, 13-20cm, high. |
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1:32 Scale Tractors |
A 1:32 ERTL tractor is approximately 4-6 inches, 10-15cm, long, and 2-3 inches, 5-8 cm, high. |
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1:64 Scale Tractors |
A 1:64 ERTL tractor is approximately 2-3 inches, 5-8 cm, long, and 1-2 inches, 3-5 cm, high. |
ERTL produces die-cast metal cars in various scales, depending on the model and series. The chart below provides a good indication of sizes:
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1:18 Scale Cars |
A 1:18 ERTL die-cast car is approximately 9-11 inches, 23-28cm, long, and 2.5-4 inches, 6-10cm, high. |
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1:24 Scale Cars |
A 1:24 ERTL die-cast car is approximately 7-8 inches, 18-20cm, long, and 2-3 inches, 5-8 cm, high. |
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1:43 Scale Cars |
A 1:43 ERTL die-cast car is approximately 4-5 inches, 10-13cm, long, and 1.5-2 inches, 4-5cm, high. |
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1:64 Scale Cars |
A 1:64 ERTL die-cast car is approximately 2-3 inches, 5-8 cm, long, and less than 1 inch, 2.5cm, high. |
For action figures, the same scale logic applies, but you should always check the packaging if you’re unsure. All ERTL toys and models are designed to fit seamlessly into the ERTL world, so if you have both tractors and figures that fit the 1:32 scale, for example, they will all integrate perfectly. Certain brand figures, such as Tamiya for example, will also fit in if they are of a similar scale. However, if it’s seamless integration you’re looking for it’s best to opt for the full ERTL experience.
Typically ERTL toys and models come in three popular scales. The reason for this is to cater for diverse audiences and offer choices. Once you’ve picked your favorite scale, it’s easy to then build your collection based on that particular scale. However, some collectors like to create scenes with different sized models.
ERTL’s ride-on tractor is the biggest in their range of toy tractors, and the specifications vary depending on the model and design. Ride-on tractors are designed for kids to sit on and ride, providing a fun, interactive, and memorable play experience. They also make great photographs to document happy childhood moments.
The value of a toy or model tractor varies and the scale is just one aspect that contributes to its value. Generally, collectors look for:
Determining the specific value of the “biggest scale” tractor, for example, requires knowledge. It’s always a good idea to consult with collectors, auction houses, or the ERTL collector’s guide.
ERTL has a long and illustrious history and has secured itself as a respected manufacturer of die-cast metal toys. Their farm toys, in particular, have set the company apart.
ERTL’s 1:16, 1:32, and 1:64 scale tractors are incredibly popular with enthusiasts and children and the range extends to familiar brands such as John Deere. ERTL’s broad range of toys and collectibles ensures that there is something for everyone.
To find out the prices of individual models you can have a look at the ERTL catalog or the ERTL website. To assess the value of vintage or collectible items the ERTL collector’s guide is a wealth of information.
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