For fans of speed, engineering, and brick-building brilliance, the Mercedes F1 Lego sets have always been a pinnacle of collectible desire. Following in the tire tracks of the LEGO Technic 42141 McLaren Formula 1 Race Car, the anticipation for the LEGO Technic 42171 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance has been immense. Priced at US $219.99 | CAN $289.99 | UK £189.99 for 1642 pieces, this Mercedes F1 LEGO model enters the race at a higher price point per piece than its McLaren predecessor. But does this latest 1:8 scale Technic supercar justify the cost and capture the essence of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team W14 E Performance? Let’s dive into a detailed review as we explore this much-awaited set, available from March 1st.
Front cover of the LEGO Technic Mercedes AMG F1 W14 E Performance set box, showcasing the model against a blurred racetrack background.
Disclaimer: The LEGO Group provided this set to The Brothers Brick for early review. Providing review products does not guarantee positive coverage.
Unboxing the Mercedes F1 LEGO Experience: Parts, Instructions, and Decals
The packaging of this Mercedes F1 LEGO set immediately signals a premium experience. The sleek black box, standard for 18+ LEGO sets, is accented with a striking teal banner, mirroring the vibrant highlights on the actual Mercedes-AMG F1 car. The box back offers enticing glimpses of the model’s features, alongside a compelling side-by-side comparison of the LEGO replica and the real-world F1 W14, highlighting a remarkable visual similarity right from the start.
The front of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance box with teal accents, featuring the LEGO Technic logo.
The back of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance box showing feature insets and a comparison image of the real car and LEGO model.
Inside, the set is neatly organized with twelve numbered bags, two unnumbered bags, and four tires packed separately.
An overview of the box contents for the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, including numbered and unnumbered bags and loose tires.
As is typical with high-end LEGO Technic sets, the instruction manual’s initial pages are dedicated to providing background on both the model and its real-world inspiration. This Mercedes F1 LEGO set goes even further, offering a more extensive introduction than usual. You’ll find fascinating details about the history and production of the actual W14, alongside insights into the LEGO designers’ choices. Notably, the sleek black and teal color scheme is a deliberate homage to the 2020 livery of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team car, adding an extra layer of authenticity for dedicated F1 aficionados.
Instruction manual opening pages of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, featuring details about the real vehicle and LEGO design choices.
Adding to the realism of this Mercedes F1 LEGO model are the extensive sticker sheets. Two full pages are dedicated to decals and sponsor logos, promising a visually rich and detailed final product. From a preliminary glance, it appears there are even more stickers included than in the McLaren F1 LEGO set, suggesting a greater level of intricate detailing in this Mercedes model.
Sticker sheet page 1 for the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, packed with sponsor logos and car details.
Sticker sheet page 2 for the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, continuing the extensive decals for the model.
Building the Mercedes F1 LEGO: A Step-by-Step Construction
The build process for this Mercedes F1 LEGO car begins with the front steering mechanism, a departure from the McLaren F1 LEGO which started with the rear differential. While there are subtle differences in part selection and assembly techniques, the fundamental functionality and appearance of the steering systems in both Mercedes F1 LEGO and McLaren models are remarkably similar.
Close-up of the front steering mechanism assembly for the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance during the build.
Another angle of the front steering assembly, showing the Technic components used in the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance.
The steering action is smooth and responsive, a satisfying feature for playability.
GIF demonstrating the steering functionality of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the wheels turning.
Moving onto the suspension, the springs in this Mercedes F1 LEGO model feel slightly firmer than those in the McLaren, yet the overall sensation remains comparable. The Mercedes build simplifies the spring installation process compared to the McLaren, opting for a more straightforward approach.
GIF showcasing the suspension system in action on the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, highlighting the spring compression.
The central chassis section construction reveals robust Technic frames and a bevel gear mechanism designed to transfer steering input to a knob situated on top of the car. This external steering knob is a notable addition absent in the McLaren, offering enhanced playability for younger builders or those who prefer a more direct steering control.
The central chassis construction of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, featuring heavy-duty Technic frames and bevel gear steering.
The steering wheel design itself echoes the McLaren model, featuring identical construction but unique sticker detailing. Interestingly, the instructions for both Mercedes F1 LEGO and McLaren suggest a slight counter-clockwise misalignment of the steering wheel when the wheels are centered. While this can be adjusted during assembly, it might be an intentional design choice, perhaps reflecting a characteristic of real-world race cars.
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Steering wheel assembly of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing similarities to the McLaren F1 LEGO steering wheel.
GIF demonstrating the steering wheel alignment issue in the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the tilt when wheels are centered.
Further chassis construction completes the foundational framework of the Mercedes F1 LEGO car.
Chassis framework nearing completion for the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the structural Technic elements.
The rear differential assembly of the Mercedes F1 LEGO shares a striking resemblance to the McLaren’s, utilizing similar components.
Rear differential assembly during the build of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing familiar Technic parts.
However, a key difference emerges in the orientation of the differential within the stacked assembly. In the Mercedes F1 LEGO, the differential sits atop the stack, whereas in the McLaren, it’s positioned at the bottom.
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Stacked rear wheel mechanics for the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, highlighting the differential on top.
Completing bag #4 adds the final Technic frame to this section.
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Rear chassis section completion of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the assembly with Technic frames.
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Another view of the rear chassis section, demonstrating the scale and detail of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance.
Significant design divergences between the Mercedes F1 LEGO and the McLaren become apparent with the introduction of new 3×7 panels. These uniquely shaped, bone-like cross-section panels, concave on one side and convex on the other, are used six times throughout the Mercedes model, marking a departure from standard Technic panels.
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New 3×7 panel element featured in the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance set, showcasing its unique shape.
The rear spoiler assembly marks the first appearance of these new panels and introduces larger, more challenging stickers. Applying these decals to the curved surface of the new panels proves to be one of the trickiest steps in the entire Mercedes F1 LEGO build. While the finished spoiler looks impressive, the exposed axles on either side leave a slightly unfinished impression.
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Rear spoiler construction for the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, highlighting the new 3×7 panels and sticker application.
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Another angle of the rear spoiler, emphasizing the curved shape and applied stickers on the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance.
Connecting the front and rear sections gives a clear indication of the Mercedes F1 LEGO car’s overall length, which is comparable to the McLaren, differing by only a couple of studs.
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Assembled chassis length of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the connected front and rear sections.
The V6 engine construction in the Mercedes F1 LEGO remains largely unchanged from previous iterations in other LEGO Technic car models. The familiar engine block is held in place by new “flip-flop” perpendicular L-shaped liftarms, a minor update to a classic design.
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V6 engine assembly of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, highlighting the familiar design and new liftarm usage.
The working pistons of the V6 engine continue to be a captivating feature, especially for those new to LEGO Technic.
GIF showcasing the working V6 engine pistons in the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, demonstrating the mechanical function.
Once installed, the engine contributes to bulking out the mid-section of the Mercedes F1 LEGO car.
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Engine installed into the chassis of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing integration with the mid-section.
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Side profile of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance with the engine installed, further shaping the car’s form.
Bag #6 focuses on crafting the sleek lower bodywork, employing small curved panels to achieve the incredibly low-to-the-ground aesthetic characteristic of F1 cars. This design choice significantly elevates the Mercedes Mercedes F1 LEGO model’s realism compared to the McLaren, which utilizes panels without the same refined edge finish in this area.
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Lower bodywork construction using curved panels on the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, creating a sleek profile.
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Another view of the lower bodywork, highlighting the close-to-ground appearance of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance.
Despite the challenges of sticker application, the seamless integration of decals along the car’s flanks is visually impressive. The near absence of straight lines in the Mercedes F1 LEGO design becomes increasingly evident at this stage, contributing to its authentic F1 car silhouette. Bag #6 also includes the construction of the driver’s seat, a significantly more detailed and contoured design compared to the simple curved panel seat in the McLaren.
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Driver’s seat construction detail in the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing a more complex design than the McLaren.
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Different angles of the driver seat, highlighting the shaping and detail incorporated in the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance.
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Close up view of the driver seat, showcasing the curved panels and Technic brick integration in the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance.
Turning to the nose of the Mercedes F1 LEGO car, we encounter another instance of innovative panel usage. Two new, smaller panels are sandwiched between larger curved panels, creating an illusion of greater depth and layering, further enhanced by strategically placed stickers.
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Nose cone construction of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the layered panel design and sticker detail.
The nose tip incorporates a few System LEGO elements, including quarter-round bricks, for added shaping detail. While visually effective, this section can be somewhat fragile and prone to detaching. The remaining front panels are then integrated, with smaller panels at the very front providing one of the few straight lines in the entire design, cleverly blended with the curved upper sections to minimize its flatness.
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Front panels and nose cone nearing completion on the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the blended curves and lines.
As the build nears completion, the airbox, positioned above the cockpit, is added. The external steering knob sits atop this airbox, a functional element that might divide opinions among collectors. While it enhances playability, particularly for younger users, it can be easily removed for display purposes by those who prioritize aesthetics.
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Airbox and steering knob assembly on the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the functionality-focused design.
Final touches to the cockpit include a soft axle representing the halo safety device and side mirrors. Notably absent from the front of this Mercedes F1 LEGO model is the number 44, typically associated with Lewis Hamilton. This omission suggests a deliberate design choice by LEGO to emphasize the car itself rather than a specific driver.
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Completed cockpit area of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, including halo, mirrors, and steering knob.
Similar to the LEGO Technic PEUGEOT 9X8 24H Le Mans Hybrid Hypercar, the rear section of the Mercedes F1 LEGO is designed as a removable unit, allowing a view into the engine and differential mechanisms beneath. While photographs struggle to fully capture the seamlessness, the integration of this removable section is remarkably well-executed for a LEGO model. A large rotor element sits centrally, reminiscent of the McLaren design, though differing in overall construction. One minor drawback is the potential difficulty in perfectly aligning the star stickers on this rear section, which might be noticeable upon close inspection.
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Removable rear engine cover of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the star sticker alignment and rotor detail.
Beneath the cover, the engine and differential assemblies are clearly visible. The removable section attaches securely with axle pins, although lifting the model by this section is not recommended. It’s best to grip the car by the central chassis for secure handling.
The final stage involves adding the wheels, which incorporate new LEGO components. The smooth tires are a significant improvement over the McLaren’s treaded tires, more accurately reflecting F1 slick tires. New smooth hubcaps and printed 1×1 round tiles further enhance the wheel detail. While the real car features a white band on the tire sidewalls, this detail is understandably omitted from the Mercedes F1 LEGO version, as it would be challenging to replicate on the rubber.
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Completed wheel assembly of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the new smooth tires and printed hubcaps.
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Close up of the new smooth tire and printed hubcap detail on the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance.
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Various angles of the new wheel components, highlighting the smooth hubcaps and printed tiles for the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance.
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Wheel attached to the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the completed look and scale relative to the model.
With the wheels on, the suspension’s range of motion is clearly demonstrated.
GIF demonstrating the rear suspension flex of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing panel clearance at maximum compression.
The front suspension also exhibits a comparable range of movement.
GIF showing the front suspension in action on the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, highlighting the wheel fender clearance.
The steering radius, while not extensive, appears reasonably accurate for an F1 car replica.
GIF demonstrating the steering radius of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the turning capability.
The Finished Mercedes F1 LEGO Model: A Racing Masterpiece
Upon completion, the Mercedes F1 LEGO Technic 42171 model stands as a visually striking and remarkably detailed replica. The predominantly black color scheme lends it a sophisticated and stealthy presence, a distinct contrast to the brighter colors often seen in other Technic supercars, including the McLaren.
Completed LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance model, showcasing the sleek black design and sponsor decals.
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Side view of the finished LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, emphasizing the curved body lines and aerodynamic shape.
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Angled front view of the completed LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, highlighting the front wing and low profile.
From both front and rear perspectives, the Mercedes F1 LEGO model exudes an equally aggressive and powerful aesthetic.
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Front view of the completed LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showing the detailed front wing and nose design.
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Rear view of the finished LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, showcasing the rear wing, diffuser, and exhaust details.
The cockpit area, aside from the prominent steering knob, is convincingly rendered, capturing the essential form and details of an F1 car cockpit. While close inspection might reveal minor seam lines and slight inaccuracies, for the average enthusiast, the designers have successfully captured the spirit of the Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance in LEGO form.
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Cockpit detail of the finished LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance, highlighting the steering wheel, halo, and airbox.
Final Verdict: Is the Mercedes F1 LEGO Worth the Price?
While not initially intended as a direct comparison, it’s impossible to review the Mercedes F1 LEGO Technic 42171 without considering its predecessor, the McLaren F1 LEGO. The Mercedes model undeniably surpasses the McLaren in capturing the sleek, aerodynamic lines of a modern Formula 1 race car. The McLaren, in comparison, now appears somewhat blocky and less refined. Despite numerous shared design elements and functionalities, the Mercedes F1 LEGO represents a significant step forward in accuracy and aesthetic appeal.
However, the increased price point is a significant factor. While the Mercedes F1 LEGO contains approximately 210 more pieces than the McLaren, the $40 price increase feels substantial. The extensive sponsor logos and intricate detailing likely contribute to the higher cost.
Ultimately, deciding whether to purchase the Mercedes F1 LEGO Technic 42171 comes down to personal priorities. From a purely aesthetic and design standpoint, the Mercedes is the clear winner. The build experience is engaging and rewarding, particularly for fans of fast cars and intricate LEGO Technic models. However, the high price tag may give some potential buyers pause.
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Concluding image of the LEGO Mercedes F1 W14 E Performance model, emphasizing the sleek design and overall presentation.
For dedicated LEGO Technic enthusiasts and Mercedes F1 LEGO collectors, the 42171 set is a highly desirable addition. For casual builders or those more price-conscious, the decision might require more deliberation.
The LEGO Technic 42171 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance is available from March 1st, priced at US $219.99 | CAN $289.99 | UK £189.99.
Disclaimer: The LEGO Group provided this set to The Brothers Brick for early review. Providing review products does not guarantee positive coverage.
