This is a very interesting poll! As it stands at this moment;

A scale model has outlines that are off by no more than 10% 32% (10)

It's a scale model if it looks like the prototype no matter how off. 12% (4)


While ChOpp3r brings up some valid discussion points, this question strictly pertains to the scale outline.
It appears that the IMAC 10% deviation and "scale" combat deviation from scale rules may have had an impact on perception of what scale is.

I find it particularly interesting that 12% don't care how far off it is...they would still call it scale.