Can anyone recommend a good brand of metal car?

[Peabody]

I am looking at getting DS some toy cars for Christmas. These will be the first aged 3+ toys I have ever bought as up until now everything has been plastic and from the elc.

For some reason, possibly related to my total ignorance of toys that aren't sold at the elc, I don't seem to be able to find a nice pack of little metal (or possibly 'diecast', whatever that is) cars.

I just want 5-10 little cars that look realistic and will last for ever. Or at least until his sister is old enough for them.

If anyone has any ideas they would be most gratefully received.

Try individual Matchbox ones - they had a good selection in Asda recently. Like Mini Cooper, station wagon, sports cars, funky little old Saab, etc. Mostly metal, minimal plastic. Still not like they used to be though...

hot wheels

Thanks to both of you. I was looking at some Hot Wheels ones in Toys R Us, actually. Will have another look at Matchbox as well.

pack of 5 hotwheels £5 in Wilkinsons.