1/43 Model Review: 2019 Red Bull RB15 Honda (Spark)

2019 has been a tale of two cars for the Red Bull team. Expectations were that Honda could finally compete with the other power units on the grid, allied with the strong Red Bull chassis. However the amended rules for 2019 meant that a lot of the strengths that Red Bull excelled at have been taken away and their advantage over Mercedes and Ferrari on the chassis department have been reduced. In fact Mercedes probably have a stronger chassis than Red Bull in 2019, and with Renault engines making great strides in 2019, the Honda power unit is still playing catch up.

Verstappen has been a consistent force in the leading Red Bull, eeking out every last ounce of pace from this car, usually running behind the front two teams. However a strong weekend in Austria gave the team their first victory of the season at their home race.

Gasly however has struggled to match the pace of his teammate, often pitting late to attempt the fastest lap and finishing 6th. However in the last few races, Gasly has struggled to stay ahead of the midfield pack.

Spark S6077

Spark S6078

Along with the McLaren, Spark have released their version of the Red Bull RB15. The car looks fantastic, though I think Minichamps have done a better matte dark blue in the past. Proportions look good, though the model doesn't seem to be running much rake, something the Red Bulls have been known for over recent years. The definition on the halo is very good, as are the details on the rims.

As noted in my McLaren review, the simplified front wing has been created very well compared to the more complicated versions of recent years. It's hard to see the barge board area as it is all in black, but again Spark have done a nice job in squeezing all the elements in and getting a good amount of detail.

There is some nice detail on the diffuser and also along the floor. You can see more of the barge board area and behind the front wheel from this angle and it's all very nicely done.

Both cars are based on the Chinese Grand Prix, with Max's car coming with a pitboard.

Another strong model from the Spark team.
Score: 7/10

Race Specific Models

Spark S6084

Spark have also provided us with the shakedown livery. It was with some disappointment that this was not the race livery as it looked fantastic, but it's nice that we have a model of it.

Spark S6088

Spark have produced an Austrian GP version where Max took an impressive victory, battling back through the field and overtaking Leclerc's Ferrari at the end.

Spark S6093

Max Verstappen was really on top form in the middle of the season, taking victory at a chaotic German GP. Spark have released their version of the German GP car, with rain tyres.

Spark S6095

Alex Albon's debut at the Belgian GP with the senior Red Bull team is commemorated by the model which includes a tribute to Anthoine Hubert who lost his life the previous day.

Spark S6049

Max's 100th GP is commemorated with this podium finish at the US GP, the model coming with a pitboard.

Spark S6046

Verstappen took an excellent victory at the chaotic Brazilian Grand Prix which this model commemorates with a lovely winners trophy along with the replica race winning car.

Japanese Limited Editions

As with the Honda powered Toro Rosso, I believe this Australian GP version was sold at the Japanese GP which I came across on ebay.

Again, there is a Japan Limited version from the Spanish GP, with only 200 of these made.