In March, LEGO enthusiasts and Formula 1 fans alike were treated to a double release from The LEGO Group: two distinct LEGO Technic sets meticulously modeled after the same iconic vehicle – the Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance race car. The larger set, #42171 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance, is a complex and detailed build designed for adult aficionados. Its smaller counterpart, #42165 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance Pull-Back, offers a more accessible and playful experience tailored for builders aged 7 and up.
Beyond simply examining each set individually, this review will delve into the fascinating adaptation of a single source material – the W14 Mercedes Formula 1 car – across drastically different scales and target audiences. How effectively do both sets capture the essence of the Mercedes W14, and which offers a more compelling LEGO building experience? Let’s explore.
#42171 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance: A Deep Dive for Adult Builders
The flagship model, #42171 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance, is a substantial LEGO Technic set aimed squarely at adult builders (18+). Comprising 1642 pieces, this set launched on March 1, 2024, with a price point of $219.99 (219.99€ / £189.99 / 289.99 CAD / 299.99 AUD). Opening the box reveals a well-organized assortment of 12 numbered bags, four large wheels in a separate un-numbered bag, and four individual tires.
Box contents of the larger LEGO Technic Mercedes W14 set, including tires, numerous bags of parts, and a cardboard pouch containing instructions and sticker sheets.
A notable inclusion is a cardboard pouch containing the instruction manual and, remarkably, two expansive sticker sheets. While Formula 1 cars are renowned for their extensive sponsor logos, the sheer volume of 74 stickers in this set is almost record-breaking for a LEGO model.
The Build Experience: Bag by Bag with the W14 Mercedes
The first bag kicks off the build with an engaging start, focusing on the rear suspension system. It constructs a compact central assembly featuring 1×9 Wishbone Suspension Arms (part 32294) on each side. This section becomes the core of bag 1, utilizing eight Wishbones and a pair of Shock Absorbers to establish robust wheel attachment points. This design provides significant resistance to bumps while maintaining responsive steering in both directions, crucial for a realistic W14 Mercedes model.
Bag 2 offers a quicker building phase. It involves creating a single sub-assembly with a few gears, which is then connected to the progress from bag 1. This step significantly extends the model’s length, providing a clearer sense of the final size and scale of this Mercedes W14 replica.
Progress after completing bag 2, showing the lengthening chassis of the LEGO Technic Mercedes W14 model.
In the third bag, the focus shifts to the front suspension and steering mechanism. Another substantial assembly is constructed, designed to accommodate the front wheels. This section centers around a 7×11 Frame (part 39794) incorporating a differential in the middle. These components are linked to another set of wishbone suspension arms, adding the complexity of power transmission to the wheels via the differential, mimicking the intricate mechanics of the W14 Mercedes.
Bag 4 marks a turning point where the model begins to visually resemble the W14 Mercedes. Continuing the construction of the second module, the emphasis transitions from purely mechanical functions to incorporating exterior shaping. Despite the heavy reliance on stickers in the set, the brick-built 107Bright Bluish GreenDark Turquoise / Teal stripes on the rear fender are a welcome detail. The culmination of bag 4 is the joining of the front and rear modules, revealing the full length and proportions of the Mercedes W14 LEGO model.
The LEGO Technic Mercedes W14 taking shape, with the full car length becoming apparent after bag 4 completion.
Bag 5 is dedicated to the engine block assembly, which is designed to connect to the rear wheels. The engine utilizes 40Transparent Trans-Clear parts, a stylistic choice that, while not entirely realistic, allows for clear visibility of the 24Bright YellowYellow pistons in motion. The second half of this bag reinforces the connection between the front and rear sections of the model, employing the relatively new 3×19 Technic Frame (part 67491) in black to create a rigid and stable structure for the W14 Mercedes LEGO.
Bag 6 focuses on adding the ‘floor’ modules to each side of the car. These represent the slim horizontal sections positioned between the front and rear wheels, contributing to the aerodynamic profile of the W14 Mercedes.
Installing the ‘floor’ section in bag 6, contributing to the aerodynamic shaping of the LEGO Technic Mercedes W14.
The seventh bag is all about constructing the ‘sidepods’, crucial aerodynamic elements on either side of the car. These sidepods channel cooling air to the engine and play a significant role in the vehicle’s overall aerodynamics. The LEGO model employs intricate building techniques to achieve the complex shapes of the sidepods, including surrounding the air intake with 2×3 Panel, Curved (Part 71682). However, the iconic accent line being represented by a sticker rather than LEGO elements is a point of disappointment.
Bag 8 is a less impactful stage, adding smaller detailing panels around the edges of the model. This bag also includes the construction of a small seat for the driver figure (not included in the set). Bag 9 brings the front end of the car to life, featuring stacked scalloped edges that create a visually appealing effect. A smooth ridge running down the front of the vehicle is also built in this stage, further refining the W14 Mercedes‘s distinctive form.
Bag 10 is a quick assembly, adding the iconic air intake positioned directly above the engine, trimmed with 21Bright RedRed elements around its edges. A small gear protrudes above the intake, connecting to the steering mechanism, enabling front wheel steering functionality for play. This feature allows for interactive play with the W14 Mercedes model.
The eleventh bag adds further exterior detailing to both sides of the cockpit. This includes small side mirrors, which would benefit from reflective stickers or, ideally, chromed silver 1×2 tiles. The highlight of bag 11 is the flexible axle that curves around the cockpit, achieving a smooth, curved shape that accurately reflects the W14 Mercedes design.
The 12th and final bag concludes the project by completing a removable assembly, started in the previous bag, that covers the engine. The very last step is assembling the wheels, which utilize a new part introduced in this set: Wheel Cover Ø56 mm (Part 4472). This new element provides a sleek finish to the wheels, enhanced by the Teal accent piece attached in the center, completing the look of the W14 Mercedes LEGO model.
Build Time Breakdown: (Total: 232 Minutes) Bag 1: 33 mins, Bag 2: 16 mins, Bag 3: 26 mins, Bag 4: 23 mins, Bag 5: 16 mins, Bag 6: 16 mins, Bag 7: 19 mins, Bag 8: 16 mins, Bag 9: 23 mins, Bag 10: 11 mins, Bag 11: 17 mins, Bag 12: 16 mins.
Final Verdict on the #42171 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance
Despite a promising beginning with the wishbone suspension and chassis assembly, the overall experience with the larger W14 Mercedes set feels somewhat lackluster. The model relies too heavily on stickers to achieve a visually compelling finished product, particularly when turquoise accents are sticker-based instead of brick-built.
The build process, while initially engaging, becomes less exciting in the latter half. Focus shifts to shaping the exterior using Technic elements, which feels less rewarding compared to Technic models of this scale that incorporate more intricate mechanical functions.
Furthermore, the price point seems high for what is offered. For a similar price, sets like #21061 Notre Dame offer significantly more intricate detailing and a substantially higher piece count.
Ultimately, the #42171 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance receives an Acceptable (2/5 stars) rating. While not a poor Technic model overall, especially for F1 enthusiasts or those who enjoy applying stickers, there are more compelling LEGO options available at this price point.
#42165 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance Pull-Back: Fun for Younger F1 Fans
In contrast to the adult-focused larger set, the #42165 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance Pull-Back is designed for younger builders. With 240 pieces and a 7+ age recommendation, this smaller W14 Mercedes set carries a price tag of $26.99 (26.99€ / £20.99 / 34.99 CAD / $39.99 AUD).
Inside the box are four numbered bags, four tires, an instruction booklet, and a surprisingly large sticker sheet for a set of this size, mirroring the sticker-heavy approach of its larger sibling in the Mercedes W14 LEGO lineup.
Building the Pull-Back W14 Mercedes: A Quick and Engaging Experience
Bag 1 provides a straightforward start, constructing a robust central core for the vehicle with the pull-back motor integrated at the rear. As this section is mostly concealed within the finished model, only one of the 26 stickers is used – a simple Mercedes logo at the front of the cockpit. This initial stage focuses on functionality and core structure for the W14 Mercedes pull-back action.
Bag 2 concentrates on the front end of the vehicle, incorporating two levels of fins on the leading edge. Optional stickers for brands like Syntium and TeamViewer can be added for detail. While still early in the build, the emerging shape hints at the speed and aerodynamic design of the W14 Mercedes race car.
The vehicle truly begins to resemble the W14 Mercedes in Bag 3. This is largely due to the three flexible axles used to create the gentle curves of the 107Bright Bluish GreenDark Turquoise / Teal racing stripes on the sides, and the curved shape of the black cockpit. These flex axles are key to capturing the sleek lines of the W14 Mercedes design in a smaller scale.
Bag 4 adds the final details: a large rear spoiler assembly, additional fins on the front, and the driving boards on the sides. Finally, the four wheels are attached, covered with 3×3 Discs (Part 2723). Unlike the larger model, the 107Bright Bluish GreenDark Turquoise / Teal accents on the wheels are sticker-based, continuing the sticker theme even in the smaller W14 Mercedes set.
Final Thoughts on the #42165 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance Pull-Back
Despite being under the recommended age of 7, an experienced 5-year-old builder successfully assembled this set independently over a couple of days. This suggests the age recommendation is accurate and appropriate for the set’s complexity.
The strength of this model lies in its ability to capture the essence of the original W14 Mercedes vehicle despite its smaller size. This abstraction requires clever design choices, prioritizing overall shape and playability over intricate detailing, which is fitting for a set aimed at younger audiences. However, the inclusion of a large sticker sheet, even for a smaller set, remains a drawback, especially for younger builders.
While slightly above $0.10 per piece, the $27 price feels reasonable, though not exceptional value compared to similar pull-back sets like the Monster Jam series, which offer similar part counts and the same pull-back motor for a lower price.
Ultimately, the #42165 Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance Pull-Back earns a Good (3/5 stars) rating. It’s a solid choice for younger builders interested in race cars and the Mercedes W14 in particular, especially if they already enjoy other pull-back vehicle sets.
Comparing the LEGO Mercedes W14 Sets: Stickers, Target Audiences, and Overall Value
Despite being based on the same W14 Mercedes Formula 1 car, these two LEGO Technic sets are clearly designed for vastly different audiences, reflecting different priorities in scale, complexity, and play features.
Sticker Overload: A Shared Trait
Formula 1 racing is synonymous with heavily branded vehicles adorned with sponsor logos. Both LEGO sets reflect this through an extensive use of stickers.
Both the larger and smaller LEGO Mercedes W14 sets include a significant number of stickers, potentially overwhelming some builders.
The larger set features a staggering 74 stickers, approaching a record for LEGO sets. Even the smaller set includes 26 stickers, which may be excessive for a set targeting builders aged 7 and up, potentially leading to frustration for children or their parents assisting with application.
The reviewer opted to build both sets without applying any stickers, impacting build times, photographic representation, and overall impressions of the finished models.
Age Targeting and Model Focus
The LEGO Group effectively differentiated these sets by age appropriateness, although perhaps missed an opportunity to explicitly market them as a multi-generational building experience, with families building both the larger and smaller W14 Mercedes models together.
The larger model emphasizes details of F1 car design, such as the flat floor and intricate aerodynamic elements of the W14 Mercedes. The smaller model prioritizes capturing the overall shape and incorporating the essential pull-back play feature, perfectly aligning with the expectations of a younger audience. Despite its smaller scale, the pull-back model effectively captures the W14 Mercedes aesthetic thanks to clever use of flexible axles for the signature curved lines.
Final Thoughts on the LEGO Mercedes W14 Lineup
Acknowledging a personal ambivalence towards F1 racing and a dislike for stickers, the reviewer admits not being the primary target audience for either of these Mercedes W14 sets. However, the larger set is considered weaker compared to other large Technic cars, while the smaller set emerges as the better of the two in terms of value and target audience appeal.
While neither set became a personal favorite, this review aims to provide helpful insights for potential buyers. Consider using the provided referral links when purchasing these or other LEGO sets to support content creation.
Disclaimer: The LEGO Group provided these sets for review purposes. The opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer and are not influenced by set provision. Photos are by Tom Alphin unless otherwise credited. Refer to the About page for journalistic standards and affiliate program information.
