I am sure there are many disappointed Ferrari F1 fans after McLaren took the 2024 Constructors Championship, and to satisfy their Ferrari appetite, I will review something red today – GT Spirit 1:18th scale 1996 Ferrari F50 GT. For those who are not aware, this is a derivative model from the regular Ferrari F50. The Ferrari F50 GT has unique changes over the original F50, which include a hood scoop and a different rear wing. The factory built test models to compete in the GT1 class, but decided to pull away due to their unhappiness with the FIA. In total, only three examples were produced out of the original six that were initially planned. This makes it highly desirable, and the real car is worth quite a fortune now. Thankfully for us who cannot afford it, GT Spirit did the honours to produce one for us in a 1:18th scale.

This model is packaged in their new presentation style box, which includes see-through windows in order to make a model visible without unpacking it. Originally, I was a little skeptical about this change, however, I grew to like it as it allows us to take a peek and admire the model inside. The model is now screwed into a plastic base with four screws to make sure it is stationary in its place. If you are going to remove the model from the base, I would like to notify you that the operation is not as easy as it was before. Screws have been changed with a smaller insertion point and can be very easily stripped. I recommend you apply enough pressure and use a perfectly matching screwdriver bit.

Out of the box, this shiny red resin specimen feels heavy which in turn gives it a premium feel. The paint is glossy and very well applied – I do not see any obvious leaks or oversprays. Black-painted accents are executed well. I do like the inclusion of photo-etched clips that simulate clips to hold the engine bay cover, which definitely adds to the realism. Front and side windows fit well all around the model. I feel GT Spirit is bridging the gap to much more expensive resin models.

Moving to the interior, it is mostly black and is indeed true to the original. As this was intended to be a GT1 car, there is only one seat. A red fabric three-point seatbelt with “momo” branding is realistic and the buckles are well done too. In my opinion, adding flocking on both the seat and steering wheel would have enhanced the interior look. On the plus side, the steering wheel has a Ferrari logo, and a red fire extinguisher is included. Overall, it is a reasonable interior for a model in this price range.

At the front, everything looks right in place. The yellow tow hook looks great and neatly breaks up the red front. I also like the black outlines around the headlight lens cover – they are again well done. On the flip side, the Ferrari badge should be placed a little lower – I am not sure if this is the case only in my example or if it is consistent for all. By comparing it with pictures of the real car, I also feel the two large vents just above the logo should have been a little rounder.

Now, let’s take a look at the back. The perforated mesh grill runs all the way through the width of the car and is well done, giving the model a more premium look. The rear lights show depth and the rear wing is truthful to the original. Two mounts that hold it in place are black, while the rest is red.

GT Spirit is good in the wheels department and this model is no different. This gem is wearing black Speedline wheels with a white script to identify its origin. Brembo calipers are branded with a red-on-white script. Slick tires include Michelin branding and Michelin Man mascot too mirroring the original car.

Moving onto the exterior once again, I would like to highlight that side hood clips are photo-etched pieces and not just painted on. A black line runs through the entire length of the car and is painted within the grove – as it should be. The gas cover is finished black too. Door shut lines are on point with a good amount of depth. Overall, this looks like a good model to me.

To sum it all up, the model displays itself very well, especially beside their earlier release Ferrari F50 model. If you already have an F40 LM and/or Enzo FXX-K, this model is a nice addition to this fleet of exclusive Ferrari cars. With only three real Ferrari F50 GT cars produced, this is most likely the closest it will be for car enthusiasts to see and appreciate the design of a real one. With GT Spirit producing only 1300 pieces, I think it will sell out fast!