1/43 Model Review: 1978 World Champion Mario Andretti (Lotus 79 Ford Cosworth)

Background

Colin Chapman had fine tuned the ground effect by extending the rear endplates down behind the rear wheels to enlarge the aerodynamic force. It was introduced at the 6th race of the year, at Belgium, where the car won six wins out of eight, 5 of them by Andretti who claimed the Drivers Championship and helped Lotus win the Constructors' title, the last for the Lotus team. Sadly Andretti's team-mate, Ronnie Peterson lost his life following an accident at Monza.

Though both the Lotus 78 and the 79 were used, it was really the advanced aerodynamics of the 79 that won Lotus their championship, so I'll just be featuring the 79 in this post. From a quick look, besides TSM's set in this post, only Quartzo and RBA produce a version of the 78 from this season. Spark have produced a 78, but not with Andretti in the cockpit.

Minichamps

Minichamps 430780005

As we reach the end of the 1970s, the shapes of the cars have transformed completely from the 72 that took Jochen Rindt to his first title. Spurred by aerodynamic gains, large sidepods shaped as aerofoils, and covered engines were the way forward which makes these models more about the aerodynamic surfaces than engine detail. So this pretty simple offering from Minichamps stands up pretty well, the shape is nicely done and the JPS livery looks as nice as ever. The helmet sits a bit far forward and a little low though.
Score: 7/10 

Spark

Spark S1848

Spark have recently released their version of the 79, this one from the Belgian Grand Prix. Personally, being a Brit, I do like the addition of the flag on the side. I like the detail and the helmet looks really great with Andretti's grey and red stripe. A very nice model from Spark. You'd do well to buy this model yourself for under £100.
Score: 8/10 

Quartzo

Quartzo 4089

A nice model from Quartzo of the Lotus 78

Formula 1 Car Collection / Ixo

This car is also featured as part of the Formula 1 Car Collection series and it's not a bad job. I can't put my finger on it, but it just looks a bit stale, a bit souless, it just lacks the character of the real thing.
Score: 6/10

Tameo

Tameo WCT78

Tameo have produced another stunner with this version of the 79. A mix of good proportions and lovely detail, this one put together very well.

Score: 9/10

True Scale Models (TSM)

TSM TSM12SS3

TSM released their three car set of Andretti in the Lotus. This includes both the 78 car and the 79. It comes with all the usual quality you'd expect from TSM and this doesn't disappoint.

Score: 9/10