The History and Legacy of Scalextric

At Adams Scalextric Events, we celebrate everything about Scalextric slot car racing – from its fascinating history to the exciting events we run today.

The Birth of Scalextric

Scalextric, the world-famous slot car racing system, was first invented in 1957 by toy manufacturer Fred Francis. Originally, Francis created Scalex tinplate clockwork model cars, which he later adapted into the very first Scalextric cars. Living near Goodwood racetrack in Sussex, Francis designed the early Scalextric sets to mirror the racing world – complete with fences, trackside accessories, and even miniature marshals for a realistic motorsport experience.

Evolution of Scalextric

Since its creation, more than 2,000 different Scalextric models have been produced. Remarkably, almost every car shares a wheelbase within half a centimetre of each other, ensuring fair competition on the track. The scale has remained a consistent 1:32, with only rare exceptions.

A major milestone came in May 1961, when controls were upgraded from simple on/off knobs to handheld triggers – a system still instantly recognisable today at Scalextric events around the world.

Rare and Collectable Scalextric Cars

Collectors and enthusiasts alike treasure vintage Scalextric models, with some fetching thousands of pounds. The most valuable of all is the C70 Bugatti Type 59, of which only around 100 experimental versions were ever made. Mint-condition examples have sold for over £5,000, and one recently surfaced on the market for a staggering £7,850.

Scalextric has also produced some unusual and fun sets over the years – from the Batmobile and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles on skateboards, to James Bond sets and even racehorses! The innovation of drift-enabled sets also added a whole new dimension to slot car racing, letting cars slide naturally through corners just like in real motorsport.

The Top 10 Most Valuable Scalextric Models

For collectors, here are some of the most sought-after and valuable Scalextric cars:

1. C70 Bugatti Type 59 – any colour

2. C69 Ferrari 250 GT SWB – yellow

3. C68 Aston Martin DB4 GT – yellow

4. 24C/101 1:24 Scale Jaguar E-Type – red

5. MM/C53 Austin-Healey 100/6 (Tinplate) – any colour

6. CK2 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS – any colour

7. C65 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 – yellow

8. C71 Auto Union Type-C – yellow

9. 24C/500 1:24 Scale Lotus 38 – any colour

10. C88 Cooper Type 61 – blue

C70 Bugatti Type 59 - Blue. Expected to fetch over £4000 at auction!

Scalextric Today at Adams Scalextric Events

From its roots in the 1950s to the thrilling Scalextric hire and events we host today, this legendary racing system continues to bring people together. Whether you’re reliving your childhood memories, a serious collector, or just looking for exciting Scalextric corporate entertainment, parties, or team-building events, we bring the magic of Scalextric to life for everyone.