Distinctions - LEGO does not skimp with the design features on the Speed Champions 1985 Audi Sport Quattro S1 76897, capturing the blocky style of the original vehicle while also sticking to primarily existing moulding that can easily be used in conjunction with other sets to create new imaginative builds. The driver minifigure arrives with a wrench, an optional hair piece, and a bespoke Audi racing team jumpsuit never before seen.

Criticisms - The only real criticism to be leveled at the LEGO Speed Champions 1985 Audi Sport Quattro S1 76897 is that many of the design motifs require sticker decals to complete the look, narrowing the reusability of pieces.

Distinctions - As with most LEGO sets, the Speed Champions 1985 Audi Sport Quattro S1 76897 incorporates strong pieces with tight tolerances and solid color palettes. Figure prints are generally very solid and have a strong luster that does not fade with time.

Criticisms - Low clearance on the splitter makes for accidental breakages that would normally not happen with a reinforcement piece underneath.

Distinctions - The proportions on the LEGO Speed Champions 1985 Audi Sport Quattro S1 76897 are remarkably comparable to the real Group B legend, with the overall shape only complimented further by the simple yet effective designs of decals spread over the exterior.

Criticisms - Blocky design language present in the real car is only amplified in the LEGO version, with the squaring difference in the shape and size of the wheel arches disrupting the natural body lines that make the original a rolling work of art.

Distinctions - LEGO is, as ever, strong in reuse and recyclability. This particular set does not overdo bespoke or limited use special pieces, opting instead for stickers to illustrate design details, ensuring that every piece is easily usable with the rest of LEGO’s system. Fully plastic designs are easily recyclable if desired, though freedom of LEGO assembly allows for continued use in as many contexts as can be conceptualized.

Criticisms - As always, the criticism to be had with LEGO products is their plastic base, as well as traditionally recyclable, but still disposable paper instructions and ink-heavy retail packaging. Reuse, quality and longevity of LEGO pieces offsets the plastic cost, but considering the over-sized nature of the box versus the contents, reductions are possible. Stickers and new molds for minifigures do come with an associated environmental cost.

Distinctions - Hard to find a larger catalogue of products that are still legacy compatible with new sets like this one. The LEGO Speed Champions 1985 Audi Sport Quattro S1 76897 is easily the best and most playable model of the famous car existing on the market for a non-prohibitive price.

Criticisms - LEGO’s major complaint with aficionados is the gradual price inflation and decrease of set sizes. This particular set manifests those reductions less than others, but unfortunately lacks the perfect capture of the shape of the car necessary to deem it perfect.