How do I convert scale to actual cm/inches?

[Peter1974]

I am trying to build a car model by combining parts (engine etc) from a remotely controlled car with a model car (preferably a hot rod). So, the dimensions from the RC decides how big the model car should be. 

I need to know the actual size of the model cars. How do I figure that out, when only the scale is listed?

[Harry P.]

The scale tells you the size of the model compared to the real thing.

A 1/25 scale model is 25 times smaller than the real car. A 1/12 scale model is twelves smaller than the real car. A 1/32 scale model is 32 times smaller than the real car. Works the same way for every scale. No matter what the scale is, it tells you the proportion of the model's size as compared to the real car's size.

To convert scale dimensions to full size, just multiply the in-scale dimension by the scale of the kit. For example, if the 1/25 scale model body is 8 inches long, multiply that dimension by 25 to get the full -size dimension. (8 inches x 25 = 200 inches in full scale).

Works the same in any scale.

[Longbox55]

Multiply the measurement of the part(s) in question by the second number of the scale listed. For example, with 1/25 scale, you would multiply the given dimension by 25 to get full scale. depending on the accuracy of the kit, you will be pretty close to the actual full scale dimension. One thing to consider, since you are working with an RC car, it's not unusual for RC car parts to be way out of scale from what the 1/1 part would be. In some cases, especially bodies, they can also be somewhat caricaturized or cartoonish, depending on what it is and who made it.

[STYRENE-SURFER]

i like to use this calculator.

http://webpages.charter.net/sinkwich/sdventure/html/sd_scalecalc2.htm

[Peter1974]

Good evening Harry P,

Thank you so much for the swift reply - much appreciated! With a rear axel (with the electric motor and power pack) measuring approx. 10 cm, my guess is that I need a model car 1/16.

[Longbox55]

Which RC car are you using as your base?  1/16 would be an unusual scale for an RC car. 1/18 and 1/10 are more common with RC, but are uncommon with static models.

[sjordan2]

Which RC car are you using as your base?  1/16 would be an unusual scale for an RC car. 1/18 and 1/10 are more common with RC, but are uncommon with static models.

1/14 is common for some RC companies like Akai. Anyway, I just get conversions instantly online with converters like the one linked above. But working it out yourself as described above is good practice.