The LEGO Technic 42171 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance set has roared onto the scene, and as a seasoned automotive enthusiast and LEGO builder, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. Having recently revisited my review of the LEGO Technic 42141 McLaren Formula 1 Race Car and found myself perhaps a bit critical, I was particularly eager to see if this Mercedes Lego F1 model would hit the high notes that its McLaren predecessor might have missed. Priced at US $219.99 | CAN $289.99 | UK £189.99 for 1642 pieces, the Mercedes LEGO F1 certainly enters at a premium price point, even more so than the McLaren. But does this translate to a superior LEGO Technic experience? Let’s delve into this 1:8 scale marvel, available from March 1st, and see if it lives up to the Mercedes-AMG F1 legacy.
Unboxing: First Impressions of the Mercedes LEGO F1
The packaging of the Mercedes LEGO F1 set immediately sets a sophisticated tone. The 18+ black box, standard for adult-focused LEGO sets, is accented with a striking teal banner, mirroring the vibrant highlights on the actual Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance car. The back of the box is adorned with inset images showcasing key features of the model, alongside a compelling side-by-side comparison of the LEGO version and the real F1 car. The resemblance is indeed striking, hinting at the level of detail we can expect within.
Opening the box reveals a well-organized array of components: twelve numbered bags, two unnumbered bags containing larger elements, and four substantial, slick tires.
As is typical with LEGO Technic sets of this caliber, the instruction manual dedicates its initial pages to providing background information about both the model and its real-world counterpart. Interestingly, the Mercedes LEGO F1 instruction booklet seems to offer an even more extensive introduction than usual. Highlights include details on the history and manufacturing process of the actual W14 car, alongside insights into the LEGO designers’ choices. For instance, the sleek black and teal color scheme is intentionally chosen as a homage to the 2020 livery of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team car.
True to form for a Formula 1 replica, the Mercedes LEGO F1 set includes a substantial sticker sheet – actually, two full pages of them! These decals are crucial for replicating the intricate branding and sponsor logos that adorn a modern F1 car. A quick glance suggests there are even more stickers included here than in the McLaren set, promising an authentically detailed finish, albeit potentially demanding careful application.
Building the Mercedes LEGO F1: A Step-by-Step Experience
The build process for the Mercedes LEGO F1 commences with the front steering mechanism, a departure from the McLaren which began with the rear differential. While there are differences in specific piece selection and assembly techniques compared to the McLaren, the fundamental functionality and final appearance of the front and rear assemblies are remarkably similar across both models.
The steering system operates smoothly and responsively, a testament to LEGO Technic’s engineering. It’s engaging to test the mechanism even in these early stages.
Moving onto the suspension, the springs in the Mercedes LEGO F1 model feel slightly firmer than those in the McLaren, although the overall suspension behavior is comparable. Unlike the McLaren, which featured a somewhat unusual spring installation step, the Mercedes employs a more straightforward approach, simplifying this part of the build.
Next comes the construction of the central chassis section, which will eventually house the cockpit. This segment of the Mercedes LEGO F1 build utilizes robust Technic frames and incorporates a bevel gear assembly. This ingenious mechanism transfers steering input to a knob positioned atop the model, enhancing playability by providing an easily accessible steering control – a feature absent in the McLaren LEGO F1 car.
The steering wheel itself in the Mercedes LEGO F1 is very similar in design to the McLaren’s. While each features unique stickers, their construction is otherwise identical. Interestingly, both models’ instructions depict a slight counter-clockwise misalignment of the steering wheel when the wheels are centered. While this can be corrected during assembly, it’s unclear if this is an intentional design choice, perhaps reflecting a characteristic of real-world race cars.
The following GIF illustrates the steering wheel’s range of motion, showing the slightly uneven turning radius as suggested by the instructions.
Continuing the chassis construction, further large Technic frames are added, bringing the framework to approximately two-thirds completion.
As we progress to the rear differential assembly, the components once again bear a strong resemblance to those used in the McLaren LEGO F1 car.
Stacked together, these components form a compact and functional unit for the rear wheels. However, a key difference from the McLaren emerges here: the orientation of the differential is reversed, positioned on top rather than underneath in the McLaren.
The addition of a final Technic frame concludes bag #4 of the Mercedes LEGO F1 build.
Now we begin to see significant divergence from the McLaren design, starting with the introduction of new 3×7 panels. These unique, bone-shaped cross-section panels, concave on one side and convex on the other, are utilized six times throughout the Mercedes LEGO F1 set.
The first application of these new panels, and a splash of vibrant color, is in the rear spoiler assembly. This stage also involves applying some of the larger stickers, a task that proves to be quite challenging on the curved surface of these new panels! While the final result looks impressive, the exposed axles on either side of the spoiler feel somewhat unfinished.
With the spoiler completed, the front and rear chassis sections are joined together, giving a clearer indication of the Mercedes LEGO F1 car’s overall length. It’s remarkably close in size to the McLaren LEGO F1 model, differing by only a couple of studs.
Next in the build sequence is the V6 engine. LEGO’s approach to replicating this engine is fairly standardized across their F1 models, resulting in a familiar construction. However, the Mercedes LEGO F1 utilizes new “flip-flop” perpendicular L-shaped liftarms to mount the engine, a subtle but noteworthy update.
Despite its repeated appearance in other sets, the working V6 engine remains an engaging feature, especially for those new to LEGO Technic.
Once installed, the engine adds bulk to the sides of the chassis, completing bag #5 of the Mercedes LEGO F1 build.
Bag #6 focuses on shaping the lower body of the car, creating its sleek, ground-hugging profile. This is achieved using small, curved panels, effectively conveying the F1 car’s low stance. The Mercedes LEGO F1 model surpasses the McLaren in this aspect; the McLaren utilizes panels without the same refined edge, making the Mercedes appear significantly lower and more aerodynamic.
While applying the stickers along the side of the car can be tedious, the seamless integration they achieve is visually impressive. The near absence of straight lines in the Mercedes LEGO F1 design becomes increasingly apparent at this stage, contributing to its fluid and aerodynamic aesthetic. Bag #6 also includes the construction of the driver’s seat, a notable upgrade from the McLaren’s simplistic curved panel seat, offering a more substantial and detailed seating area.
Turning to the nose of the Mercedes LEGO F1 car, we encounter another pair of new panel elements. These half-sized panels are sandwiched between larger curved panels, and with clever sticker placement, create the illusion of greater depth and layering than is physically present.
The resulting nose section is visually appealing and effectively captures the complex shapes of a modern F1 car’s front end. A few System elements, including quarter-round bricks, are incorporated at the very tip of the nose. While aesthetically pleasing, this section is somewhat prone to detaching if handled roughly. The remaining front panels are also added at this stage. The smaller panels at the leading edge represent one of the few straight lines on the model, but this is cleverly integrated with the curved upper sections, minimizing its visual flatness.
As we approach the final stages of the build, the airbox, positioned above the cockpit, is added. The steering knob, which some may find visually intrusive, sits atop this airbox, directly above the simulated car camera. While its placement prioritizes play functionality, it can be easily removed for display purposes if desired.
To complete the cockpit area, a soft axle is used to create the halo safety device, and side mirrors are attached. Notably absent from the front of the Mercedes LEGO F1 model is the number 44, typically associated with Lewis Hamilton. This omission suggests LEGO’s intention to emphasize the car itself, rather than a specific driver.
Similar to the PEUGEOT Le Mans Hybrid Hypercar, the rear engine cover of the Mercedes LEGO F1 is designed as a removable section, allowing a glimpse into the engine and differential beneath. While photographs struggle to fully capture the seamlessness of this integration, it blends together surprisingly well for a LEGO model. A large rotor element is centrally positioned, reminiscent of the McLaren, though the overall design differs significantly. One minor, yet potentially frustrating, detail is the difficulty in perfectly aligning the star stickers on this rear section. While largely unnoticeable in the finished model, it may test the patience of meticulous builders during application.
Beneath the cover, the engine and differential assemblies are clearly visible. The cover section attaches securely with axle pins, and while tempting, lifting the model by this section is not recommended. However, the central chassis provides ample structural integrity for handling if grasped correctly.
The final build stage involves attaching the wheels, which incorporate several new LEGO elements. The smooth tires are a significant improvement in accuracy compared to the McLaren, and new smooth hubcaps topped with printed 1×1 round tiles further enhance the realism. While the real car features a white band on the tire sidewalls, this detail is understandably omitted from the LEGO version due to the rubber tire material.
With the wheels attached, the suspension’s travel can be tested. The Mercedes LEGO F1 exhibits a decent amount of suspension flex.
The front suspension also demonstrates a similar range of motion. While the fenders above the wheels may appear slightly oversized compared to the real car, they remain within acceptable proportions for a LEGO representation.
The steering mechanism retains its full range of motion after the wheels are fitted. While the turning radius is not particularly tight, it appears reasonably accurate for an F1 car replica.
The Completed Mercedes LEGO F1 Model
Upon completion, the Mercedes LEGO F1 model is undeniably sleek and visually striking, effectively utilizing the new LEGO elements to capture the essence of the Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance. The black and teal livery gives it a menacing and sophisticated presence, a welcome contrast to the brighter color schemes often seen in recent LEGO Technic car models, including the McLaren.
Approaching the Mercedes LEGO F1 from the front or rear reveals equally compelling perspectives, showcasing the model’s intricate aerodynamic shaping.
Aside from the slightly prominent steering knob, the cockpit area and surrounding bodywork are well-executed. While close inspection may reveal minor seam lines and areas where absolute accuracy is compromised (as is inevitable with LEGO), for the average F1 enthusiast, the designers have achieved a remarkably faithful representation.
Final Verdict: Mercedes LEGO F1 – Worth the Price?
While this review wasn’t initially intended as a direct comparison between the McLaren and Mercedes LEGO F1 cars, the parallels are unavoidable. Ultimately, the Mercedes LEGO F1 makes the McLaren look somewhat blocky and less refined. The Mercedes excels at capturing the sleek and flowing lines of a modern Formula 1 race car. Despite numerous shared design approaches and functionalities, the Mercedes represents a clear step forward in visual fidelity and overall design execution.
However, the increased price is a significant consideration. With only 210 additional pieces compared to the McLaren, a slight price increase might be expected. But the $40 price jump is substantial and raises questions about value. The extensive sponsor logos and associated licensing costs likely contribute to this premium pricing.
In conclusion, recommending the Mercedes LEGO F1 is a complex decision. Visually, it surpasses the McLaren significantly, and the build experience is enjoyable and engaging for fans of fast cars and LEGO Technic. However, the high price point is difficult to overlook. While the Mercedes LEGO F1 is a superior model in many respects, whether that superiority justifies the price premium is a matter of individual budget and priorities. For dedicated Mercedes and F1 fans, or those seeking the most visually refined LEGO Technic F1 experience, the Mercedes LEGO F1 is undoubtedly appealing. For more casual buyers, the price may be a significant hurdle.
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The LEGO Technic 42171 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance will be available from March 1st, priced at US $219.99 | CAN $289.99 | UK £189.99.
