The 1966 Ford GT40 MKII race car

Detailed ratings

In-depth review analysis

The 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII stands out first for its subject: this historic racing car joins a range of relatively compact Technic vehicles previously dominated by modern models. Reviewers place it among similarly sized cars, with 793 pieces and a stated length of approximately 30 cm. The change of era is noteworthy, but it does not by itself produce agreement that the formula has been refreshed: the car’s appeal also rests on its building experience, appearance and price.

New Elementary describes a build divided among six sets of bags. The first two produce the chassis, front and rear axles, engine and steering mechanism; the final bags complete the car. The reviewer considers the process relatively short for this category. Brick Fanatics estimates roughly two hours and challenges the idea that the experience is simply comparable to that of other Technic cars with similar prices and piece counts. Brickset is more reserved: it calls the model competent but sees it as essentially more of the same.

One functional detail attracts attention: the front compartment is almost impossible to open directly by hand, but a lever on the passenger side lifts it. New Elementary appreciates this practical solution despite its lack of realism; Brickset also identifies the mechanism as a notable feature. That does not, however, make the car especially rich in functions in every reviewer’s eyes. Brickset points to the functional limitations of the compact format, while New Elementary considers play no more enjoyable than with other comparable, cheaper cars.

Visually, Brick Fanatics finds the result more polished than most comparable Technic cars. Brickset appreciates the lacquered gold wheels but considers the rear inaccurate. New Elementary describes a black body with gold wheels before the racing stickers are applied. This palette gives the model an identity, but the reviewer finds black dull as the dominant colour in the parts inventory. The review also notes the use of a bright colour inside this dark car: although the reviewer understands that such colours usually help the building process, they do not consider them necessary here.

Finishing the model also requires care. According to Brick Fanatics, it has many stickers, and the smallest are particularly difficult to position because a finger obscures the piece during application. The same outlet notes that the intricate spoke design faces inward, while simpler circular holes remain visible on the completed wheels. These observations qualify its otherwise favourable assessment of the presentation.

Price is a significant reservation. New Elementary considers the play experience unfavourable when compared with cheaper cars and finds that the black inventory limits the appeal of the parts selection. Brickset notes a £10 or $10 increase over similarly sized cars from the previous year with comparable piece counts. Brick Fanatics lists prices of £64.99, €74.99 or $74.99; these figures provide context for the assessment without establishing the model’s value for every buyer on their own.

The available evidence about the instructions is more limited. New Elementary identifies an inventory error: the element ID associated with one rim leads to a gold version of a different element. It also mentions the introduction and the image on the back of the booklet, but does not provide enough assessment here of how clear the steps are. Likewise, Brick Fanatics’ favourable description of the build is not a test of its resistance over time. Ultimately, the GT40 appeals chiefly through its subject and presentation, with documented reservations about the price, certain visual choices and sticker application.

Strengths

• Distinctive historic subject in a range focused largely on modern cars.
• Presentation considered particularly polished by Brick Fanatics.
• Appreciated gold wheels and a practical lever for opening the front compartment.

Weaknesses

• Higher price than similarly sized cars according to Brickset.
• Rear considered inaccurate by Brickset.
• Many stickers, some of which are difficult to apply.
• Black-dominated parts inventory considered dull by New Elementary.

Where reviewers disagree

Brick Fanatics considers the building experience distinct from that of comparable cars, whereas Brickset regards the model as competent but essentially familiar. — Brickset.com · Brick Fanatics

Publications consulted

newelementary.com · Date not provided

Brickset.com · Date not provided

Brick Fanatics · 2025-12-29