04.02.2021Great modelcars I: Ayrton Senna and the Lotus 97T

Insights into the technology of Formula 1 modelcars are very rare nowadays, they barely have - or actually do not have - removable engine hoods. For the fans, who still want to add a glimpse of such top-class technology to their home racing area, the Lotus 97T from the Formula 1 1985 is a first-class opportunity. Manufacturer Premium X has equipped its scale 1:18 miniatures with exactly this feature: The engine covers have to be lifted and allow a view of the drive set of the car used by Team John Player Special Team Lotus, with which Ayrton Senna won the Portugal Grand Prix in Estoril. The models are available under item number SEN18001 and are not only characterized by a true-to-original cockpit replica and the equipment with a driver figure. 

It is also the price for which these models enrich the range: The collector can safe 38 percent additionally until the end of March 2021, because of the ongoing winter sale at ck-modelcars.de and still receives a detailed replica of the engine compartment: In the Lotus 97T works a six-cylinder in V-formation with around 1.5 liter displacement that was built by Renault and supported by two turbo chargers from supplier Garrett. Intake manifolds, valve covers and cylinder heads, spark plug connectors, engine block and the meandering exhaust manifold or exhaust system are complemented by meticulously recreated cooling air ducts, which are hidden by the engine cover opening into a bottle neck in the majority of the otherwise available F1 modelcars. All components of the engine are reproduced in the correct coloring. Depending on the version, the V6 develops up to 662 kW / 900 hp at up to 11,300 rpm. 

Tamed with a five-speed manual transmission. The cars used at that time became a legend not only because of the occupation with Ayrton Senna, but also because of the black paintwork with gold applications, with which the tobacco company R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company advertised its cigarette brand John Player. A decal set for the prototypical design of the outer skin is included with the modelcars. Other sponsors of the Lotus 97T designed by Gérard Ducarouge in 1985 were optics manufacturer Olympus and household appliance manufacturer De’Longhi. It rained on April 21st, 1985, which is why the tires on the miniatures show a profile. Senna and Elio De Angelis drove 32 starts, three wins and eight poles with the 97T, and at the end of the season they finished fourth and fifth in the drivers 'championship and fourth in the constructors' championship. 

Here: Click to the modelcars of the Lotus 97T 1985