McLaren MP4/4 1988 (Pre-colored Edition) 1:12

Plastic model kit of a 1988 McLaren MP4/4
   Pre-Colored Edition  

• Scale 1:12
• Dimensions (L x W, assembled): 367 x 177 mm
• This model realistically recreates the classic appearance and exquisite paint finish of the 1988 McLaren MP4/4.
• The front wing and the upper body cover are removable; the kit includes stands to allow the body cover to be displayed separately.
• The "nosebox" (vehicle nose), featuring a carbon-fiber texture, is also removable. The tires are made of high-quality vinyl and can likewise be detached.
• Components such as wishbones, tie rods, pull rods, and the steering column are crafted from metal.
• The 1.5-liter V6 turbocharged RA168E engine has been faithfully reproduced and features a high-quality paint finish.
• The kit incorporates components made from various materials - including springs, vinyl tubing, and screws - that lend the model a highly realistic appearance.
• The pre-painted parts boast an excellent surface quality.
• Through the use of diverse painting and electroplating techniques, the metallic surfaces of the various materials are rendered with exceptional authenticity.
• Parts featuring a carbon-fiber texture offer a premium surface finish and significantly simplify the assembly process.
• Components with complex markings come pre-painted, perfectly showcasing the vehicle's signature livery.
• The seatbelts are crafted from a specialized fabric material; they not only look realistic but are also easy to install. Unassembled, unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

A classic replica of a legendary race car

During the 1988 Formula 1 season, the McLaren MP4/4 achieved legendary status thanks to its outstanding performance and excellent results. It posed immense challenges for all other teams and drivers - regardless of their vehicles or technical equipment. Furthermore, the red-and-white livery of the MP4/4 has become an iconic, defining feature of this race car.

Following the FIA’s introduction of new engine regulations for Formula 1 cars at the end of 1987, teams utilizing turbo engines encountered significant difficulties. The FIA ​​not only tightened restrictions on turbo engines but also decided to ban them entirely, effective 1989. While most teams switched to naturally aspirated engines upon receiving the new regulations, McLaren’s designers took a different perspective on turbo engines. Anticipating a trend toward lower centers of gravity and reduced aerodynamic drag, McLaren lowered the vehicle as much as possible, extended the nose section, and adjusted the driver’s seating angle from 45 degrees to 30 degrees. Simultaneously, McLaren entered into a partnership with Honda. The RA168E turbo engine was seamlessly integrated into the chassis design, resulting in a highly competitive race car: the McLaren MP4/4.

The drivers who transformed the McLaren MP4/4 into a true legend were the genius Ayrton Senna and "The Professor," Alain Prost. With these two elite drivers at the wheel, the McLaren MP4/4 secured the majority of victories in 1988, with the two teammates taking turns claiming the wins. That season, Senna won his first Formula 1 World Drivers' Championship, and McLaren won the Formula 1 World Constructors' Championship with a total of 199 points. A legend was born!