1/12 Tyrrell P34 w/Photo-Etched Parts

The wild and wacky Tyrrell six-wheeler! But don't laugh; that nutty four-wheels-up-front design was actually pretty successful, winning and placing in several Grand Prix races during the 1976 and 1977 F1 seasons. The idea of the smaller wheels up front was to present a lower profile, thus imposing less aerodynamic drag. Four wheels were used to maintain the all-important traction needed to get around (and stay on!) the track. All four front wheels turned, thanks to a complex suspension and steering linkage system. And I bet the pit stops were fun, too! Six tires to change... The idea was abandoned for the 1978 season, ostensibly due to a lack in technical development of the small front tires.

Tamiya has re-released their spectacular Tyrrell P34 kit, this time with the welcome addition of seat belts and photo-etched metal parts to take the already magnificent level of detail even higher. From the incredibly detailed Ford-Cosworth DFV engine, cockpit, and front and rear suspensions, to the beautifully printed decals and realistic tires, this six-wheeled monster is definitely not a kit to be missed!