Sad the reasons that led Jean-Pierre Jarier to replace Ronnie Peterson in the last two Grands Prix of the 1978 season, those of the United States and Canada, occupying the seat of the
Lotus Ford 79 with the number #55. This decal sheet allows us to reproduce this version, with which Jarier nearly finished on the podium at Watkins Glen before running out of gas with four laps to go, and winning in Montreal after starting on pole, but had to retire due to an oil leak. Tobacco decals are included.
Additional details for the
Lotus Ford Type 79 marking / livery:
- Manufactured by Tabu Design in 1/20 scale with reference TABU20071 (also listed as 4545310802334).
- Belongs to the Lotus Team.
- Raced at the FIA Formula 1 World Championship in 1978.
- To be used with Tamiya reference TAM20060.
- Includes water slide decals and tobacco sponsor decals.
- Package measures 100 mm x 180 mm x 1 mm (width x depth x height), weighting 10 g.
- Box barcode 4545310802334 (GTIN/EAN)
- Featured in newsletter 566.
The Lotus 79 was much more than a redesign of its predecessor. The 79 model generated so much downforce due to aerodynamic development that after the first tests they had to use a specially reinforced monocoque in various areas.
The new Lotus single-seater featured other innovations. Although the radiators were still mounted on the sidepods (the water one on the right and the oil one on the left), the fuel tank was in a cell between the cockpit and the engine. The advantage was great, since it was a great load located in the lower part and centered in the chassis, allowing to keep the center of gravity low.
These developments proved to be exceptional. The 1978 Lotus was as reliable as it was fast on all circuits. Mario Andretti won four Grand Prix with this car, to which must be added another victory with the previous Type 78 model. This is how Mario Andretti was proclaimed World Champion in 1978 by a wide margin of points.
His teammate Ronnie Peterson won a race in the Lotus 79 and took four second places before his fatal crash at Monza.
However, other teams quickly developed their cars and reached Lotus level of performance, and by early 1979 the Lotus was no longer the same dominant car of previous years. But Lotus will always be remembered for its defining innovations in the world of motorsports.
This item is not suitable for children under 18 years old. SpotModel recommend this item for advanced modellers and professionals with high experience on building cars and bikes. Read carefully all instructions.
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