Motorsport & F1 Collectibles
LEGO Speed Champions McLaren F1 Team MCL38 Race Car (77251) Review
- Brand:
- LEGO Speed Champions
- Ages:
- 10+ years
- Updated:
- 2026-07-15
The verdict
The most current McLaren F1 LEGO option available, with a couple of genuinely accurate details (the halo-opening cockpit, Pirelli tire branding) that go beyond the basic Speed Champions formula — a good pick specifically for McLaren fans wanting an up-to-date car.
Pros
- Represents McLaren's actual 2024-season MCL38 car, making it a current, relevant addition for F1 fans
- Cockpit opens by lifting the halo bar — a small, accurate detail matching how the real car's safety structure works
- 269 pieces with wishbone suspension detail and Pirelli-branded wider rear tires add realism beyond the basic shape
- $26.99 keeps it an accessible, quick build compared to Technic-tier F1 sets
Cons
- No functional mechanics — the suspension and steering details are cosmetic, not operational, unlike Technic sets
- At 269 pieces, it's still a small, simple build with limited surface detail
- A single-car set with no minifigure bundled in some listings, so check what's included before buying
Set 77251 is LEGO's Speed Champions representation of McLaren's actual 2024 F1 season car, the MCL38, built from 269 pieces at $26.99. For McLaren fans specifically, it's the most current officially licensed LEGO option in the lineup.
Small details that add up
The cockpit opens by lifting the halo safety bar rather than a generic hinge, which mirrors how the real car's structure works. LEGO also added wishbone suspension detailing and wider rear tires printed with the Pirelli branding — small touches that show attention to the actual 2024 car rather than a generic F1 shape.
Still a Speed Champions set at heart
Despite those details, none of the suspension or steering is functional — it's all cosmetic, consistent with the rest of the Speed Champions line's focus on quick, accessible builds over mechanical depth. At 269 pieces, it remains a small, simple model compared to any Technic set.
Who it's for
Best for McLaren fans who specifically want the current 2024-season livery, and for kids or casual builders aged 10+ who want a quick, accurate F1 build. Collectors chasing mechanical depth should look at Technic instead.
Frequently asked
- What F1 season does the MCL38 represent?
- It represents McLaren's 2024 Formula 1 season car, making it one of the more current cars in LEGO's Speed Champions F1 lineup.
- Does the cockpit open?
- Yes — it opens by lifting the halo bar, a detail designed to mirror the real car's safety structure rather than using a generic hinge.
- How many pieces is this set?
- 269 pieces, which keeps it a fast build in line with the rest of the Speed Champions series.
- Is the McLaren F1 Team MCL38 Race Car worth buying?
- Yes, for McLaren fans who want the current season's livery in LEGO form and appreciate the accurate halo-cockpit and Pirelli tire details. It's not the choice for buyers who want functional mechanics.
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