1/43 Model Review: 1997 Sauber C16 Petronas

Background

After losing the Mercedes Engine to McLaren for the 1996 season, Sauber were able to negotiate Ferrari customer engines, a start of a nine year relationship, that was rekindled following BMW's departure in 2010. They took on long time Ferrari Test Driver, Nicola Larini, but he left the team after five races. Morbidelli replaced him, but broke his arm on two separate occasions, meaning Norberto Fontana was also used by the team. Herbert, in his second year for the team, was able to lead the team to 7th in the Constructors' Championship with an impressive podium finish at Hungary.

Onyx

Onyx 298

Onyx released their budget version of the Sauber back in 1997. It's really not too bad for a budget model, yes the front wing droops a bit, there could be more definition on the airbox, and the rear wing looks like it's going to fall off the back of the car, but the general shape is reasonable, the colour scheme acceptable, the rims are correct, as are the helmets, so it's not too bad all things considered, particularly for the price you pay.
Score: 6/10

Minichamps

Minichamps 417970017

Minichamps finally released their version in 2019, available with Herbert and Larini in limited edition runs. The car is based on the end of season with the sculpted front wing endplates, and sculpted sidepod flaps and a much smaller rear wing endplate. This is a fantastic resin model from Minichamps, with lovely proportions and fantastic added detail as well.

Minichamps 517974399

The real reason this model was made was to add to the Schumacher 25th anniversary collection, which comes in a few different inlays from what I can tell. Peter Sauber had a close working relationship with Ferrari and after the Italian GP, was able to borrow Schumacher for a secret test at Fiorano, with photos being leaked years later. Sauber wanted an experienced driver to help with imbalance issues, with Herberts teammates all struggling with the car. Schumacher completed 84 laps and lapping around a second slower than his time in a Ferrari. Schumacher ran the car without sponsors on.

Score: 8/10

Tameo

Tameo TMK244

Based on the Hungarian GP, this is the Tameo version of the Sauber. I love all the upper rear wing elements, the extra fin inside the sidepod opening, the detail on this model is lovely. The cockpit detail is exquisite and there's nothing missed on this model. I think I personally prefer the Minichamps model overall, but the fine details on this car just about makes up for it.
Score: 8/10