Distinctions - LEGO’s strength in Speed Champions has always stemmed from their color use and build techniques, with the LEGO McLaren Solus GT and LEGO McLaren F1 LM both respectively existing as great examples of those characteristics. Both vehicles have novel uses of previous propeller and paddle pieces to give doorframes on the F1 and the Solus’ spinal segment of aero-functions shape, in addition to many other strong decisions along the way. Both sets are accompanied by a driver with an helmet and hairpiece options wearing bespoke McLaren racing uniforms, adding to the bespoke nature of the design.

Criticisms - LEGO unfortunately neglects the 76918 Speed Champions McLaren Solus GT & McLaren F1 LM in terms of accessories, with the only additional piece being a single wrench given to one of the drivers. Other similar entries from the Speed Champions line do include drag strip lights, or part racks, or other related automotive accoutrements. Similarly, unlike larger Technic sets, both the Solus GT and the F1 LM come without many performance elements like a steering rack or suspension, which might be a disappointment for those looking for more function over form.

Distinctions - LEGO provides typically great build creativity across the whole and precise tolerances on the individual pieces. The McLaren F1 LM is particularly good, capturing the proportions and trademark shape without neglecting build strength. Sticker designs are tactfully concise while also accurately representing design elements from the larger models.

Criticisms - Build quality on the Solus GT is definitively weaker, with, in particular, two side panels often coming disconnected with normal use. Shaking and hard play will cause problems more often. On a separate note, use of stickers to avoid overcomplicating the designs does additionally involve the problems of stickers, with damage via scuffs and dings damaging the aesthetic appeal overall, and with replacement stickers less than accessible, the problem is accentuated.

Distinctions - Both designs are incredibly accurate and to scale representations of the McLaren Solus GT & McLaren F1 LM. Colors are vivid and do not lose luster without tremendous and deliberate wear.

Criticisms - While papaya orange is the color that made the F1 LM famous, both designs use a very distinct white, black and orange palette that will result in almost definite clashing with display environments. As previously mentioned, the sticker usage in both models presents a vulnerability with heavy usage, losing distinct style and design elements of the Solos GT and F1 LM as stickers are worn away.

Distinctions - LEGO is, as ever, strong in reuse and recyclability. Two distinct builds within this set allow for separate display or play. This particular set does not overdo bespoke or limited use special pieces, 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.

Distinctions - Hard to find a larger catalogue of products that are still legacy compatible with new sets like this one. Speed Champions accessories are encouraged to be used together, and feature the same general build scale in order to remain compatible and cohesive when displayed together. LEGO Speed Champions McLaren Solus GT & McLaren F1 LM 76918 arrives with better tolerances and an overall more cohesive and accurate design than competitors available on similar retailer shelves.

Criticisms - Lego’s major complaint with aficionados is the gradual price inflation and decrease of set sizes. While other competitors compensate for poorer tolerances and less thoughtful designs with larger size, Lego has maintained quality at the gradual expense of physical footprint and MSRP. This particular set, with its size and piece count, had comparable peers at two-thirds of the price from Lego within the last decade.