Where to Buy Car Model Kits in Canada
Where to Buy Car Model Kits in Canada – Complete 2025 Guide
Building scale model cars is one of the most rewarding hobbies for collectors, painters, and automotive enthusiasts. Whether you prefer classic muscle cars, modern imports, race cars, or trucks, finding high-quality car model kits in Canada is easier than ever—if you know where to look. This guide highlights the best places to buy car model kits, typical price ranges, what brands to watch for, and why Canadian hobbyists often prefer domestic retailers.
Internal Link: Shop hundreds of model car kits here: Model Car Kits at Tistaminis
Quick Summary
- Best overall source: Canadian hobby stores and online specialty retailers
- Price range: $29–$89 CAD for most standard model car kits
- Top brands: AMT, Revell, Tamiya, Moebius, Hasegawa
Top Places to Buy Car Model Kits in Canada
1) Tistaminis (Best Selection & Canadian Shipping)
Tistaminis carries one of Canada’s best selections of plastic model car kits—from classic American muscle to modern JDM icons, big rigs, sci-fi vehicles, and more.
- Why buy here: Fast Canadian shipping, no customs fees, reliable stock
- Brands available: AMT, Revell, Tamiya, Hasegawa, Moebius, and specialty kits
- Shop now: Model Car Kits at Tistaminis
2) Local Hobby Stores
Independent hobby shops often stock a curated selection of kits and tools. Perfect for browsing in person or picking up a kit same-day.
- Pros: Personal advice, local gaming/model clubs, direct support
- Cons: Smaller selection compared to online retailers
3) Big Box Retailers
Stores like Michaels or Hobby Lobby (US-border areas) occasionally stock model kits, but availability is inconsistent and typically limited to mainstream brands.
4) Online Marketplaces (Use Caution)
Amazon and eBay offer a huge selection, but watch for inflated prices, shipping from abroad, and potential counterfeit kits. Always check vendor ratings.
Popular Model Car Kit Brands in Canada
AMT
Known for vintage muscle cars, dragsters, and retro subjects. Ideal for beginners and nostalgic builders.
Revell
Wide range of modern and classic vehicles with solid detail and beginner-friendly engineering.
Tamiya
Premium precision kits, especially modern imports, rally cars, and supercars.
Moebius Models
High-detail trucks, big rigs, and classic cars with accurate shaping.
Hasegawa
Clean engineering and great fit—known for JDM icons and exotic sports cars.
How Much Do Model Car Kits Cost in Canada?
Prices vary depending on brand, scale, and subject matter. Typical ranges:
- Entry-Level Kits: $29–$45 CAD
- Mid-range Kits (most AMT/Revell): $45–$65 CAD
- Premium Kits (Tamiya/Hasegawa): $65–$110 CAD
- Large or Specialty Models: $120+ CAD
Buying from Canadian stores avoids duties and high shipping costs from international sellers.
What You’ll Need to Build Car Model Kits
- Plastic glue or cement
- Sprue cutters
- Hobby knife
- Sandpaper or sanding sticks
- Paints (acrylic or enamel)
- Clear coat for a glossy finish
- Masking tape for clean racing stripes or two-tone jobs
Why Buy Car Model Kits from Canadian Retailers?
- No import fees or surprise border charges
- Faster delivery across Canada
- Support local businesses and community hobby shops
- Easier returns/customer service if parts are missing or damaged
Image Suggestions
- Hero banner: A lineup of AMT, Revell, and Tamiya car kits arranged on a workbench
- Builder’s workspace: Tools, paints, and a partially assembled model car
- Finished display: Painted 1/24 and 1/25 cars in a shelf diorama
FAQs – Buying Car Model Kits in Canada (tap + to expand)
Most automotive kits in Canada are 1/24 or 1/25 scale, offering a great balance of detail and manageable build size.
Yes—brands like AMT and Revell are ideal for newcomers, while Tamiya and Hasegawa offer more advanced precision builds.
No. Paint and glue are sold separately. This gives builders flexibility to use any colours or brands they prefer.
Often, yes—especially once you factor in duties, international shipping, and currency conversion.
Right here: Model Car Kits at Tistaminis.
Start Building Your Next Project
Whether you're into muscle cars, imports, trucks, race kits, or vintage classics, Canada has excellent sources for model car kits. Between strong local retailers and trusted online stores, you can find everything you need to start building your next automotive masterpiece.
Shop Model Car Kits Now: Model Car Kits at Tistaminis