1:32 scale
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1:32 scale is a traditional scale (proportion) for models and miniatures, in which one unit of measurement (such as an inch or centimeter) on the model represents 32 units on the actual object. It is also known as "three-eighths scale", since 3/8-inch represents a foot. An average adult male human figure stands just under 2-1/4 inches tall (about 55 mm) in 1:32 scale.
1:32 was once so common a scale for toy trains, autos, and soldiers that it was known as "standard size" in the industry. It is the scale for Gauge 1 toy and model trains, more commonly called "Standard Gauge" by American collectors, even today. It is a common scale for figure modeling, where it is called 54 mm scale, from the height of the human figure. 1:32 was used for equipment to match 54 mm toy soldiers for miniature wargaming, and was common in scale military modeling until it was largely replaced by 1:35 scale. Today 1:32 is primarily thought of as a slot car scale.
1:32 slot cars are especially popular in Europe, partly due to the Scalextric brand, and its many competitors (such as SCX, Fly, Carrera, Revell etc). In Britain, the most commonly used track is made by Scalextric. Generally there are 4 generations of Scalextric track. The first type was made of rubber. Later on a plastic track was produced, which is known as Classic track (it can be identified by its ring connectors), later Sport track with square edged slot type connectors, and the evolution of this, Digital. All standard (non digital) 1/32 scale slot cars work on all different makes of standard (non digital) track.
Scalextric Classic track can be used with SCX classic track. Scalextric classic track can be used with Scalextric sport track, but a converter piece is needed (C8222). I believe that these are compatible with digital scalextric. No digital systems are compatible with any other makes of digital system.
There are many manufacturers of slot cars. These include: Autoart, Carrera (German), Cartrix, Fly/GB Track (Spanish, detailed, and usually expensive), Ninco, Pinkkar, Proslot, Revell /Monogram, Scalextric, SCX (Spanish), Slot It (Highly Rated, they also produce a wide range of spares that can be used in other makes of slot car), Spirit, MRRC, and others ... (A few of these make track/sets as well, such as: Carrera, Ninco, SCX).
See also: List of scale model sizes
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