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For several years prior to 1975, Formula 1 racing was dominated by Ford Cosworth power. For nearly twelve years Ferrari had not tasted an F-1 championship. This car however, piloted by Niki Lauda, brought the 1975 championship back to Maranello. The racer looks like a flying saucer; flat, low and eerily fast! The shrill scream of the flat 12 cylinders at full song would give the Tin Man goosebumps.
This 1/18th diecast is a symphony of wicked detail. The suspension is active, but don't expect very much travel up front. A gentle touch will give as much movement as the real car does when scale comparisons are made. The rear independent suspension articulates more fully. Each rear half shaft turns the inboard disc brakes within the floating calipers. Fine intersecting hydraulic lines are visible leading to and from the rear fluid cooler in the rear spoiler shaft. IF you can tear your gaze away from the suspension, in the cockpit you will see minute wiring coming from each gauge of the diminuative dash panel, the sequential shifter and fabric seat/shoulder belts. Four photo-etched metal radiator-coolers grab the air and your attention as you peer down the slim sides of the richly painted body. Metal valve stems, perfect tampo work and the close fit of parts all harmonize to please the most discerning eye.
The engine however, steals the show in opulent style. The cowling, which may be removed from the car, discloses the most intricately detailed engine I have seen in a diecast to date. It even overshadows the much vaunted engine from the Jouef Ferrari 250 GTO. Every wire and piece of plumbing is reproduced in spectacular detail leading you to doubt the senses which tell you this car is really only a model. Save this look for the end and let the experience build to its proper crescendo. A truly captivating piece of diecast art. This #11 312T, piloted by Clay Regazzoni, is nearly identical to the #12 312T driven by Niki Lauda. The obvious difference is the figure engaged in a victory salute. The other, not so apparent difference is in the engine detail. The velocity stacks have fine wire mesh topping each of the ports. (04/14/2000)
(04/14/2000)
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