New-Ray Diecast in South Africa: Complete Brand Guide and Series List
Who Is New-Ray?
New-Ray Toys was founded in Hong Kong in 1987. The brand concentrates on licensed replicas at budget prices: 1:32 and 1:43 cars, 1:12 motorcycles, and a long-running range of trucks and construction vehicles. It is not a premium brand – windows are basic, interiors are simple – but licensing means real badges and real shapes at toy-aisle prices.
New-Ray Series and Scales
| Scale | Range | Typical SA price |
|---|---|---|
| 1:43 | City Cruiser cars, classic and modern licences | R80 – R150 |
| 1:32 | Pull-back and freewheel cars, pickups, SUVs | R120 – R220 |
| 1:24 / 1:18 | Larger licensed cars and gift sets | R250 – R600 |
| 1:12 | Motorcycles – MotoGP, superbikes, cruisers | R200 – R450 |
| 1:32 / 1:43 trucks | Long-haulers, construction and farm sets | R150 – R400 |
New-Ray vs Maisto vs Bburago
New-Ray sits at the budget end: cheaper and simpler than Maisto and Bburago, with rougher paint and fewer opening parts, but with licences (including niche trucks and bikes) that the bigger budget brands skip. For kids and diorama fillers it is excellent value; for display-grade collecting, step up a tier. Compare the full field in our Diecast Brands South Africa A-Z.
Where to Buy New-Ray in South Africa
New-Ray turns up at toy chains, Chinese import shops, gift stores and online marketplaces rather than specialist diecast dealers. Check packaging for the CE mark and licence sticker to avoid counterfeits, and compare pricing against Maisto before paying a premium – at the same price, Maisto usually wins on finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is New-Ray a good diecast brand?
New-Ray is a solid budget brand: licensed castings, simple detail and low prices. It is best for kids, gifts and dioramas rather than high-end display collecting.
What scales does New-Ray make?
New-Ray mainly produces 1:43 and 1:32 cars, 1:24 and 1:18 larger models, 1:12 motorcycles, plus truck and construction ranges.
How much does New-Ray cost in South Africa?
Expect roughly R80-R150 for 1:43, R120-R220 for 1:32 and R250-R600 for larger scales at SA retail, depending on the seller.
External references: New-Ray official site.
Last reviewed: 2 October 2026 by the Unnew team. Checked against official sources – Hot Wheels, Matchbox and hobbyDB – plus the South African collector community.