Expensive Honda F1 Model Outprices Actual Vehicles in Pricing
Honda and Amalgam Collection have collaborated to produce a limited edition of hand-built Formula 1 car miniature models, commemorating Honda's first F1 win at the 1965 Mexico Grand Prix. The models come in two scales: a 1:8 scale, approximately two feet long, and a 1:18 scale, approximately 9 to 12 inches long.
The 1:8 Scale Model
The 1:8 scale model, limited to just 30 units, is a meticulously crafted replica of the iconic RA272. It contains over 1,600 precision-engineered parts and requires around 450 hours to build. Each model is hand-built by craftsmen, and includes a replica of the Honda 1.5-liter V12 engine, assembled piece by piece.
Development of the tooling for the 1:8-scale model took around 4,500 hours in total. The patterns for the model were created using digital scans from the Honda Collection Hall in Motegi, Japan, combined with hundreds of period photographs of the original car during the 1965 season, specifically as raced in the Mexico GP.
Each model comes with a bespoke display case, a certificate of authenticity, and a commemorative booklet signed by Honda Racing Corporation president Koji Watanabe. The price for this limited-edition model is $28,995.
The 1:18 Scale Model
The 1:18 scale model, limited to 300 units, offers a detailed examination of the RA272 at a more affordable price point. While it is less intricate than the 1:8 scale model, it still contains over 1,600 precision-engineered parts.
Each model requires approximately 450 hours to build, and like its larger counterpart, it includes a replica of the Honda 1.5-liter V12 engine. The price for the 1:18 scale model is $1,735.
Significance and Availability
The models celebrate Honda's first Formula 1 victory, the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix driven by Richie Ginther. They represent Honda’s iconic racing DNA and motorsport history. The new Honda models will be displayed at The Quail, an exclusive car show during Monterey Car Week.
The models were available for purchase during Monterey Car Week events in August 2025, including The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, and the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion.
Amalgam is a well-established purveyor of super-fine car models that has offered miniatures with five-figure price tags. The RA272 models are a testament to their expertise and commitment to producing high-quality collectibles.
The 1:8 Scale Model, an exquisite replica of the iconic RA272, showcases Honda's rich motorsports history and is priced at $28,995, making it an exclusive piece for home-and-garden enthusiasts and motorsports lifestyle aficionados.
The 1:18 Scale Model, limited to 300 units, offers a more affordable yet detailed look at the RA272, completing the collection for car enthusiasts who appreciate the finer aspects of motorsports-inspired lifestyle pieces.
