LEGO Technic 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII review

LEGO Technic takes a step back in time to the age of Ford vs. Ferrari with the car that turned the racing world upside down.

42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII changes the Technic landscape by representing the only retro car in the line-up. Although this 1966 Ford wouldn’t compete with the other supercars in the Technic line, it’s time to see if this LEGO model can hold its own.

42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII is a departure from the standard Technic set. Most depict ultra-modern supercars and Formula 1 racers. There’s the odd SUV or commercial vehicle, but they still skew contemporary. This time around, the LEGO Group has turned its attentions to a classic car just in time for its 60th anniversary. The resulting product is a solid build that, in the end, looks far more polished than most comparable Technic cars.

I must admit, it’s been a while since I’ve built a Technic set. When it comes to cars, I often find myself believing that the Technic versions are just the little siblings to the showroom-ready Icons sets. Although this may be true in price and piece count, I’m here to challenge that perception when it comes to the build experience.

Far too often, I find myself working on sets that feel fragile. Either because their proportions are all wrong, or the moving parts are a bit too ambitious, I find that the need for precaution overtakes the joy of construction. This is not the case at all for the Ford GT40. Every piece holds together firmly with remarkable staying power. This comes to you by way of my numerous (accidental) drop tests.

Although many of the LEGO Group’s more monumental sets have some Technic elements, there’s something extremely satisfying about using nothing but Technic pieces. I would never want to fully replace the feeling of attaching two bricks with the sound of a pin snapping into place, but every once in a while, it’s an extremely refreshing change.

You may be noticing that, thus far, all that’s been discussed are the pros and cons of Technic sets. This is because, in actuality, 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII is another run-of-the-mill car. The basic chassis construction is the same as the other Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and Koenigseggs. Like the others, a small gear on the roof controls the steering, and a makeshift driveshaft pushes pistons simulating a running engine.

There are a few unique details, including the three-part hood opening, physical headlights (most Technic cars just use stickers), and golden wheels. The wheels are of specific interest because, to my best calculations, they are on backwards. The intricate spokework faces inward, while the simple circular holes are seen on the finished build.

I initially missed this detail when attaching the wheels, leading to excessive friction when trying to move the car. Although swapping them means the motion is smooth, it also means that the axles protrude well beyond the wheel, making the set look a little unfinished.

Because it’s so similar, 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII comes with the same distinct advantages and disadvantages we see across the line. The set is great for play and remains structurally sound, even with a controllable front axle, swinging doors, and both a hood and boot. Unfortunately, however, the final build is covered in stickers, with the smallest being all but impossible to place because, in doing so, your finger blocks the entire piece.

With 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII, the LEGO Group has brought retro racing to its standard Technic line. Although the set innovates when it comes to the reference vehicle, it fails to bring anything substantially new to a mid-range Technic car.

Our honest opinion: 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII makes a great addition to your Technic collection, but don’t expect anything new.

This set was provided for review by the LEGO Group.

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Is 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII Race Car display-worthy?

42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII Race Car holds up well against the Creator and Icons sets when it comes to its finished look. It’s not quite as pretty, but it blows most of the other mid-range Technic cars out of the water.

How long does it take to build LEGO Technic 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII?

You’ll spend around two hours putting together LEGO Technic 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII.

How big is LEGO Technic 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII?

42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII comes in at 30cm long, comparable in size and scale to other LEGO Technic cars in this price range.

How much does LEGO Technic 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII cost?

42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII retails for £64.99 in the UK, €74.99 in Europe and $74.99 in the US.