LEGO Racers 8461: Williams F1 Racer

Product description ------------------- Product description LEGO Racers 8461 - Williams F1 .co.uk Review ------------- Move over Juan Pablo Montoya and Ralph Schumacher--now everyone can enter the racey world of Williams F1 racing. If you enjoy serious LEGO building and you're a Formula One fanatic, then the LEGO Racers Williams F1 Team Racer is guaranteed hit. From the moment you open the box you are immersed in the diesel and testosterone-charged world of Formula One. The LEGO Williams F1 Racer is a beautiful, elegant replica of the real Williams car--with thrilling attention to detail. Some of the best elements include working differential gears driving the rear wheels, a V10 engine with moving pistons, authentic independent in-board suspension and, within the cockpit, a real working steering wheel driving the front wheels. It should be pointed out, however, that the LEGO engine block is simply fitted onto the car rather than being an inherent part of the car structure as in modern Formula One cars. The very delicate front and rear wing pieces are clearly aerodynamically designed for minimum drag. A superb feature is the special air pressure system that by the touch of one small lever raises the main bodywork and air box to allow closer inspection of the internal components of the car. Yet probably the best feature is the super wide, low profile Michelin tyres. Fittingly after such a tyre-dependent season as 2003, LEGO have paid great attention here, including marking with the correct number of grooves. Tantalisingly, you will need to wait until the very final step before fitting these maximum-grip tyres, but be prepared to be continually drawn to them throughout the construction. And LEGO couldn't ignore the ever-present commercial world of Formula One--stickers have been provided for all the main Williams sponsors, includng HP, Allianz, Castrol, BMW and Michelin to make sure that your final masterpiece bears the logos of all its financial contributors. The LEGO Williams F1 arrives with a 126-page pictorial manual (no language at all) that is simple and straightforward. Given the complexity of the final car this is in itself a significant feat. The box itself is also covered with illustrations of the car, seen from different angles or showing specific details of its construction. It helps to validate your work in progress as well as giving the sensation that you work out of a secretive F1 assembly garage, preparing for the next race. The final assembled masterpiece is a beautiful 65 cm long and makes a great collection piece to display in a bedroom or office. This Williams F1 car will take approximately 24 hours to build and although it is entirely possible to stop and start, do be aware of the strangely addictive nature of this serious LEGO kit. The LEGO Williams F1 is best enjoyed by adults and children aged at least 11 years. This is a serious toy offering maximum pleasure for big kids. --Hugo Rossignol

• LEGO 8461 Williams F1 Team Racer.