A Racecar Joins the Fray: TSM's McLaren 12C GT3, in Gulf Racing Livery (1/18)

The McLaren 12C, formerly known as the MP4-12C and notoriously nicknamed the "fax machine" among enthusiasts, is a rare instance where I believe the race version of a car looks better than the street version. Gulf livery makes it even better, or anything better for that matter. Enter the #9 McLaren 12C GT3 racecar driven in the 24 Hours of Spa. This is a sealed resin model produced by TSM (short for True Scale Miniatures), masters of producing replicas of racing's most famous icons.

I know nothing about racing history, so I'll get right to the model. This 12C comes on the heels of a pair of McLaren F1 GTR's that I acquired not too long ago but have not featured here yet. Both of those were diecast models with fully opening parts and working steering, so they are instantly more appealing than a static model such as this one. However from the looks of it, the level of detail remains largely unchanged, which is an imperative as they charge about as much for their resin models as their diecast ones. The main focus for many collectors is the engine bay, and that can be seen in all its glory through a transparent rear window.

From a small sample size, I have come to the conclusion that quality control is not TSM's strong suit. Picky collectors beware. Both of the aforementioned F1's had issues with the alignment of the exhausts as well as toe-out problems with the front wheels. This 12C GT3 comes with one tire not properly fitted onto the wheel and a rear wing (which comes deattached - a first for me) that does not sit flat when inserted into the slots. Rather, it ends up sloping downwards, creating the opposite effect which is supposed to be downforce. I had to cheat a little and place it incorrectly to mimic the intended look. The wing is an essential piece that should arrive pre-assembled, and there's no excuse for shortcuts here.

Otherwise, this is a model that is centerpiece-worthy material, from its bold, contrasting colors to its sleek, low-slung bodywork, that even non-racecar fans like me can appreciate.