Commemorating the enduring legacy of Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna’s 30-year career, McLaren and LEGO have revealed a life-sized replica of the MP4/4 F1 race car, constructed entirely from LEGO bricks.
On May 1, 1994, the world of Formula 1 was shaken by the loss of an icon. Ayrton Senna tragically lost his life in a fatal crash at the San Marino Grand Prix in Imola. During the seventh lap, his Williams FW16 collided with the concrete barriers of the Tamburello Corner, marking a tragic end to his career.
Even after thirty years since the accident, the impact of the Brazilian driver continues to be remembered. Considered by numerous individuals as one of the greatest drivers to ever compete in F1, Senna’s legacy is being honored in 2024 by many.
LEGO and McLaren have collaborated to produce a new iteration of the renowned MP4/4 race car. However, this version is not available for purchase. It is a unique, life-sized creation, measuring 173 inches in length, 84 inches in width, and 37 inches in height when fully assembled.
Incredible. 😍400,000 LEGO bricks to build this life-size MP4/4!#Senna30 pic.twitter.com/ZNIXTPYaUC
— McLaren (@McLarenF1) May 30, 2024
Furthermore, not only is it massive in size, but it also carries a significant weight. The finished model weighs in at 1323 lbs. To put this into perspective, it is 133 lbs heavier than the original race car it was modeled after.
This unique construction consists of an impressive 400,000 bricks that accurately replicate the iconic MP4/4 race car. Every detail, both inside and out, is faithfully captured, from the original livery on the exterior to the front and rear wings, suspension, wheels, and even side mirrors. The sponsor logos, expertly printed on the bricks, are true to the real car. The interior boasts a driver’s seat and steering wheel in the cockpit.
This type of construction demands a significant investment of time. It took 700 hours to complete the brick-built replica, but the end result is undoubtedly worth every minute of the 42,000 spent. The model is truly remarkable and serves as a stunning homage to the legendary Ayrton Senna. However, if you are looking for something on a smaller scale for personal use, you may need to search elsewhere.
In collaboration with McLaren, LEGO paid tribute to Senna’s life by releasing a set inspired by the F1 star in 2024. This set was introduced as part of LEGO’s Icons series, appropriately honoring the late racing legend.
The kit includes 693 pieces and features a minifigure of Senna and a brick-built replica of the McLaren MP4/4 that he drove to his first World Championship in 1988. It is a highly sought-after set for F1 enthusiasts, as long as you are able to accept that it is not full-sized.
The miniature set can be purchased at LEGO, Amazon, Walmart, or Best Buy for the price of $79.99.
- Get it at LEGO
- Get it at Amazon
- Get it at Walmart
- Get it at Best Buy
The LEGO Icons McLaren MP4/4 & Ayrton Senna model.
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