Best cheap 1/24 and 1/25 scale model cars

Start with the Maisto 1957 Corvette Assembly Line kit — the cheapest way into 1/24, and a snap-together build that needs no paint or glue, so it's the right first model for a beginner or a kid.

Who the others suit:

• AMT 1992 Chevy Silverado (1/25) — best value if you want a proper glue-and-paint kit with real detail; a pickup instead of a sports car.
• Tamiya Porsche 911 GT1 (1/24) — the pick for anyone who's built before: crisp Tamiya fit and a race-car subject.
• Ford GT diecast (1/24) — if you'd rather display than build; no assembly at all.
• AMT Shelby Cobra (1/25) — for a classic with 150+ parts and a skill-level-2 challenge.

Skip the pre-owned AMT Mustang kit unless you specifically want a vintage box — it costs far more than the new kits here.