1/43 Model Review: 1999 Jordan 199 Mugen-Honda

Background

The 1999 season would prove to be the most successful season for Jordan in its 15 year Formula One history. Riding off the high of their first win and 1-2 finish in Spa the previous year, the team would see Frentzen win two Grand Prix and pose a credible threat for the title up to the final few races, finishing third in the Drivers' Championship and third in the Constructors' Championship.

This was also to be 1996 World Champion's Damon Hill's final season in Formula One. Having never got to grips with the grooved tyres introduced in 1998, Damon struggled to match the impressive Frentzen, who himself was looking to prove himself after a difficult couple of years at Williams.

Hot Wheels (Mattel)

Hot Wheels 22811

Hot Wheels produced the Jordan 199 car and it was a pretty reasonable attempt. I'm not a big fan of the yellow that they chose, but the shape is generally not bad, good proportions, nothing sticks out as particularly wrong.
Score: 7/10

Minichamps

Minichamps 402109900

Though Minichamps never released this car as a stand alone nor with a driver figure, we have to settle for the car as part of the twin set with the EJ10 as part of the 10 year anniversary of Jordan series. The shape is very similar to the Hot Wheels, but on closer inspection, this car has a better finish and slightly better detailing.
Score: 7/10

Ixo / Formula 1 Car Collection

The Ixo car shape is not bad, looking very similar to the Hot Wheels car. This car is based on the Italian GP with the super skinny rear wing and sidepod flip ups. It's a shame that the decals feel a little slap-dash, the front wing support is yellow instead of black, and the rear wing just seems a bit rushed. The winglet just in front of the sidepod is also on the small side. Looking at some of the decal conversions that have been done, it really lifts this model, but the manufacturer applied decals leave a bit to be desired.
Score: 6/10

Tameo

Tameo TMK279

This Tameo model is also based on the race winning car from the Italian Grand Prix. This is another excellent car from Tameo. A great shape, and nice details in the cockpit, the t-cam, the transparent flip on the front wing end plate and a nice skinny rear wing assembly.

Score: 9/10