14.08.2025Ayrton Senna: The first world cup title of a legend

Ayrton Senna is considered one of the most talented drivers in Formula 1 history and still has many fans around the globe. Born in São Paulo in 1960, the Brazilian began competing in Formula 1 in 1984. Until his fatal accident in 1994 at Imola, he became world champion three times, won 41 Grands Prix, and achieved 65 pole positions in his 161 races.

In 1988, Senna switched from Lotus to McLaren, racing alongside Alain Prost. The McLaren duo dominated the season, winning 15 of the 16 Grands Prix. Senna took first place eight times, equaling the previous record for most wins in a season held by Jim Clark and Alain Prost.

The penultimate race of the season, the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka, was decisive for the title. Both McLarens repeatedly started from the front row, with Senna on pole position and Prost in second. But right at the start of the race, Senna lost the lead. He stalled his Honda engine and rolled powerless down the downhill start-finish straight. He managed to restart his McLaren, but he had fallen back to 14th place.

Senna subsequently demonstrated his exceptional talent. After just the first lap of the race, he had overtaken six opponents. After four laps, he was back in fourth place. On the 27th of 51 laps, the Brazilian finally took the lead from Alain Prost and crossed the finish line as the winner—and world champion.

Before the final race in Australia, Senna had a sufficiently large lead over Prost in the championship standings. Ayrton Senna thus won his first Drivers' World Championship, while McLaren celebrated its fourth Constructors' World Championship.

The car that led Senna to his first world championship victory is the McLaren MP4/4. Powered by a 1.5-liter Honda V6 turbo engine, it is the last turbo-powered Formula 1 world championship car before the current era, which began in 2014.

The McLaren MP4/4, featuring the distinctive and still popular Marlboro livery, was released by the manufacturer Premium X in scale 1:18. The resin model was produced in the usual high quality and reflects the original as closely as possible. The McLaren also features a faithful replica of the cockpit. The engine cover can be removed, revealing the detailed engine compartment. Also included is the driver figure with Ayrton Senna's unmistakable yellow and green helmet. The decal set, which is already attached to the model, is included.

Ayrton Senna McLaren MP4/4 #12 Winner Japanese GP Formula 1 World Champion 1988 1:18, RRP €239.95, item-no.: SENR18002

produkter

Ayrton Senna McLaren MP4/4 #12 vinder Japan GP formel 1 Verdensmester 1988 1:18 Premium X

179,95 €