If you are a BMW M Motorsport and LEGO fan, you are in for a treat. The two brands have teamed up to create a new model set celebrating their racing passion and heritage. The set is based on the BMW M8 GTE, the endurance racing car that competes in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship (IWSC). The model set is part of the LEGO Technic line, which features realistic and functional models of vehicles and machines.
What is the BMW M8 GTE?
The BMW M8 GTE is a race car developed by BMW Motorsport for the 2018 racing season. It is based on the BMW 8 Series, a luxury sports car that BMW revived after 20 years. The BMW M8 GTE is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces up to 500 horsepower. The car weighs only 2,690 pounds, thanks to its extensive use of carbon fiber and other lightweight materials. The car also features a sophisticated aerodynamic package, a six-speed sequential gearbox, and a hybrid chassis.
The BMW M8 GTE debuted at the 2018 Rolex 24 at Daytona, finishing ninth in the GTLM class. Since then, the car has achieved several podium finishes and victories in the WEC and the IWSC. Some of the notable achievements include:
- Winning the 2018 24 Hours of Le Mans in the GTE Pro class, marking BMW’s first win at the legendary race since 1999.
- Winning the 2019 24 Hours of Daytona in the GTLM class, marking BMW’s first win at the prestigious race since 1998.
- Winning the 2019 12 Hours of Sebring in the GTLM class, marking BMW’s first win at the historic race since 1997.
The BMW M8 GTE is driven by some of the best drivers in the world, such as Martin Tomczyk, Nick Catsburg, Augusto Farfus, John Edwards, Jesse Krohn, and Philipp Eng.
What is the LEGO Technic BMW M8 GTE?
The LEGO Technic BMW M8 GTE is a model set that recreates the race car in stunning detail and accuracy. The set consists of 830 pieces and measures over 3 inches high, 10 inches long, and 5 inches wide. The model features:
- A removable rear wing that can be adjusted for different racing scenarios.
- A detailed cockpit with a racing seat, a steering wheel, and a dashboard.
- A working suspension that can absorb bumps and shocks.
- A visible V8 engine with moving pistons and a fan.
- A realistic livery with authentic stickers and logos.
The model also comes with a display stand and a collector’s booklet that contains information about the real car and the LEGO designers who created the model. The model is compatible with the LEGO Technic app, which allows you to explore the features and functions of the model digitally.
The LEGO Technic BMW M8 GTE is a perfect gift for car enthusiasts and LEGO fans of all ages. It is a challenging and rewarding build that offers hours of fun and creativity. It is also a great way to learn about the engineering and design of a real race car.
Why did BMW M Motorsport and LEGO collaborate?
The collaboration between BMW M Motorsport and LEGO is not a coincidence. The two brands share a common vision and passion for racing and innovation. They also have a long history of working together on various projects and events.
For example, in 2016, LEGO and BMW collaborated on the LEGO Technic BMW R 1200 GS Adventure, a model set that replicated the iconic motorcycle in LEGO form. The set was a huge success and sold over 100,000 units worldwide. The set also inspired a full-scale concept model that was built by LEGO and BMW and displayed at various exhibitions and shows.
In 2017, LEGO and BMW teamed up again to create the LEGO Speed Champions BMW M4 DTM, a model set representing the touring car competing in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM). The set was part of the LEGO Speed Champions line, which features mini versions of famous racing cars. The set also included a minifigure of the two-time DTM champion Marco Wittmann who drove the BMW M4 DTM.
In 2018, LEGO and BMW celebrated the 40th anniversary of the BMW M1, the first and only mid-engined supercar from BMW. Giorgetto Giugiaro designed the car and was originally intended for racing. However, due to homologation issues, the car was also produced for the road, with only 453 units made. The car is considered a classic and a collector’s item by many car enthusiasts. LEGO and BMW created a life-size replica of the BMW M1 to commemorate the anniversary using over 50,000 LEGO bricks. The replica was displayed at various events and venues, such as the BMW Museum in Munich and the LEGO House in Billund.
The collaboration between BMW M Motorsport and LEGO is a testament to their mutual respect and admiration for each other. They both strive to create high-quality, innovative, and fun products. They also aim to inspire and educate their customers and fans about racing and engineering.
How can you get the LEGO Technic BMW M8 GTE?
The LEGO Technic BMW M8 GTE is available from the LEGO online shop and selected retailers. The set costs USD 49.99 and is suitable for ages 10 and up. The set is a limited edition and is expected to sell out quickly. Therefore, to get on this amazing model set, you should act fast and order yours today.
The LEGO Technic BMW M8 GTE is more than just a toy. It is a tribute to the racing passion and heritage of BMW M Motorsport and LEGO. It is a masterpiece of design and engineering that captures the essence and spirit of the real car. It is a dream for car lovers and LEGO fans alike. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of racing history and LEGO magic. Get your LEGO Technic BMW M8 GTE now and enjoy the thrill of building and playing with this awesome model set.
