Review: LEGO Technic McLaren P1™ (42172) – A Hybrid Hypercar Masterclass?
Introduction
The "Ultimate Car Concept" series is the holy grail for LEGO Technic collectors. After the Porsche, Bugatti, Lamborghini, and Ferrari, the fifth legend has arrived: The LEGO Technic McLaren P1™ (42172).
Released as an 18+ set with a massive piece count, this 1:8 scale model attempts to capture the curves of one of the most beautiful hypercars ever made. But the P1 is famous for its organic, fluid lines—something LEGO bricks historically struggle with. Did they pull it off?
Let’s open the butterfly doors and find out in this SnapTheBrick review.
Mission Specs
- Set Number: 42172
- Scale: 1:8 (Ultimate Car Concept Series)
- Key Features: 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, V8 Engine + Hybrid simulation, Butterfly Doors.
- Suspension: Active suspension geometry.
- Bonus: Unique serial number under the hood.
Engineering the Hybrid Beast
The real McLaren P1 changed the game by combining a V8 engine with electric power. LEGO has faithfully recreated this. Under the rear engine cover, you build a detailed V8 engine with moving pistons, but look closely, and you will see the yellow emulation of the electric motor hybrid system.
It is connected to a sophisticated 7-speed gearbox with a dual-clutch mechanism. Building the shifting drum and gear selectors is a complex challenge that will test even experienced builders, but the result is a transmission that clicks satisfyingly through the gears.
Functionality: Doors and Clamshells
The standout feature of this set is undoubtedly the butterfly doors. They feature a shock-absorber mechanism that allows them to glide upwards and stay open, just like the real car. It is incredibly satisfying to operate.
Additionally, the entire rear bodywork (the "clamshell") lifts up to reveal the engine and suspension geometry. Unlike some previous sets where the engine was hidden forever, the 42172 allows you to display the car in "garage mode" with the internals exposed.
Aesthetics and Display
The "McLaren Yellow" color scheme pops vibrantly on a shelf. The designers used flexible Technic panels to recreate the P1's signature scooped doors and rounded wheel arches.
At 1:8 scale, it is a centerpiece. It comes with a display plaque containing technical specs (Top Speed: 350km/h, 0-100 in 2.8s) and, like other Ultimate sets, a unique serial number hidden under the hood to unlock exclusive online content.
Final Verdict
The Pros:
- The Gearbox: The 7-speed mechanism is a marvel of plastic engineering.
- The Curves: LEGO did a fantastic job capturing the P1's difficult shape using flexible rods and panels.
- Solid Build: The model feels dense and sturdy, especially the suspension.
The Cons:
- Complexity: This is not for beginners. The gearbox assembly requires absolute precision; one mistake can jam the whole car.
- Color Consistency: As with many yellow LEGO sets, slight color variations between different panel types might be visible under bright light.
The LEGO Technic McLaren P1 is a worthy successor in the Ultimate series. It combines the mechanical density of the Ferrari Daytona with the functional flair of the Bugatti. A must-have for supercar fans.
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Note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Product images are courtesy of The LEGO Group.
