REVIEW: LCD Model Pagani Huayra R • DiecastSociety.com

REVIEW: LCD Model Pagani Huayra R

Words and photos courtesy of José Carmelo

 

HISTORY OF PAGANI:

Pagani Automobili, founded in 1992 by Horacio Pagani, is an Italian hypercar manufacturer synonymous with artistry, innovation, and exclusivity. Horacio Pagani, originally from Argentina, was inspired by the legendary Juan Manuel Fangio and combined his passion for automotive design with expertise in lightweight composites. After working at Lamborghini, Pagani set out to create a brand that would merge cutting-edge technology with bespoke craftsmanship.

Pagani’s first masterpiece, the Zonda, debuted in 1999 and immediately made waves for its radical styling and groundbreaking use of carbon fibre. The Zonda’s successor, the Huayra, launched in 2011, continuing Pagani’s tradition of combining form and function. Named after Wayra Tata, the Incan god of wind, the Huayra pushed aerodynamic innovation to new heights, with active aerodynamics and a twin-turbocharged V12 developed by Mercedes-AMG.

The Huayra R, unveiled in 2021, is a track-only homage to Pagani’s engineering prowess. Equipped with a bespoke naturally aspirated V12 engine developed by HWA, it produces a staggering 850 horsepower at a screaming 9,000 RPM. Free from road regulations, the Huayra R was designed as the ultimate expression of Pagani’s philosophy—raw performance paired with artistic craftsmanship. Its aggressive aerodynamics, lightweight construction, and race-inspired details make it a fitting tribute to the brand’s uncompromising vision.

THE REVIEW:

The LCD 1:18 Huayra R captures this ethos beautifully, bringing the essence of Pagani’s engineering marvel into the hands of collectors worldwide. Whether you’re a fan of hypercars or a seasoned model enthusiast, this piece will surely be a centrepiece in any collection.

After a long wait, the LCD Huayra R in 1:18 scale has finally landed, and it’s everything collectors hoped it would be. Touted as a strong contender for “Model of the Year,” this release has been generating anticipation for months, fueled by periodic updates and preview images showcasing its evolving design. While some early details raised concerns among the community, LCD has delivered a final product that impresses on multiple fronts.

Comparisons with similar models are tricky since the alternatives in the market are mostly resin-based (and I don’t have any in my collection). The most natural comparison might be with the Autoart Zonda R, an iconic model that debuted over a decade ago and set the standard for collectors at the time. Each is unique in its own way. The Huayra R, however, feels very solid and exceptionally well-built. It’s brimming with intricate details and textures, from the perfectly fitting pieces to the outstanding paintwork.

One standout feature is the inclusion of separate decals for customizing racing numbers, allowing collectors to personalize the model or leave it clean. This thoughtful addition is a nice touch for those of us who prefer an unadorned aesthetic. I’m not an expert in model analysis or hunting for minor defects, but the overall impression is of a high-quality, well-executed release. I’ll let the photos speak for themselves.

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25 Responses to "REVIEW: LCD Model Pagani Huayra R"

  1. DS Team says:

    Jose, thank you for providing us with some insight on this latest release from LCD Models. The Pagani is likely their best model to date. The overall fit and finish does look great on your example. But there are many who are head over heels on the QC front (return rate on this model appears north of 65% – WOW), there are challenges LCD must review and fix.

    Nonetheless, the attention to detail at least what is presented within your photos is nothing less than stunning. The model’s motor section looks to exceed that of the almightly AUTOart Zonda R, That is nothing to sneeze at! And the price is well under $300 US. Wow!

    May I end, your photography skills are next level. Thanks again for sharing!

    • Jose says:

      My pleasure guys! This scale model did blow my mind!!! I’m sorry for the Chinese guys but in my case it came without any remarkable QC issue as seen in pictures. Thanks a lot for showing my pics, I hope you all like them!

      • DS Team says:

        It’s funny, when Almost Real was supposedly having QC challenges, the Chinese contingent was a constant call to arms on the comment threads. We’re not seeing that with LCD. Maybe I just jinked us! Sorry team.

  2. HOTWEELS164 says:

    I don’t know where you can find this model “well under 300$”: in Europe it’ll be at least 350 to 450 depending on the country and the reseller.

    Nevertheless, this model will have to be added to the collection, especially if I can see it in person beforehand.

    • DS Team says:

      Once models move outside China into Europe and North America via distributors and current demand, there is likely going to be an increase in retail. Please give the author some kudos for his efforts. No?

    • Wes says:

      I’m in canada and paid $255 shipped from China

      • DS Team says:

        Did your model arrive yet?

        • Wes says:

          Nope no updates on the preorder but I only made it like a couple of weeks ago

          • Jose says:

            I have good and bad news for you buddy, the good news is that this is not a limited edition si we will see it in many sellers around the world, the bad news is that you have to wait. I pre ordered mine in May last year and it’s part of a very small batch according to the information provided by the seller (China)
            Be patient, at least you will have it before AA releases its version lol

            • Wes says:

              Thanks for the info! Honestly I could live without it but I thought it was interesting enough to preorder. If I don’t get it, it’s okay

  3. InTheFastLane says:

    Looks incredible. Thank you for those stunning pics!

  4. Scenic's View says:

    Those are some really awesome photos! Really love the close up shots!!!

    The model looks on par, if not more detailed than the good old Autoart Zonda. Definitely a strong contender for model of the year! Now, I wish they prioritized QC over rushing to release new models.

    Just curious, did you preorder yours?
    I did, but I’m yet to receive mine. I heard LCD made very few of them and that a second batch will be made. Hoping to get mine when the second batch is released. Fingers crossed!

    • Jose says:

      Thank you! I preordered mine in May last year and I guess it’s part of the very first batch made by LCD.

      • Karsten says:

        Dear Jose, thanks for contributing the review.

        I pre-ordered mine last May too, so I guess it is Small Ants you ordered it from.
        After returning my KengFai Audi R8 for the issues I mentioned in my review, they have now banned me from buying anything from them. If it is from them that you are buying, I advise you never to try and return, whatever the issue, let alone mention it publicly like in a review here. You can only return models to them in theory; if you actually do it, they will ban you without offering any explanation as to why you suddenly have no access to your account.

        • DS Team says:

          Unacceptable. Are they helping the facilitation of defective models? Are they checking their stock before pacing in a shipment box?

          • Jose says:

            In my personal experience, they shipped my order and before doing it they checked everything was fine (normally they always do the same) and btw, they’re aware of the above mentioned QC issues in the Chinese market, it’s just a confirmation of the info provided before for you guys. Anyway, I still feel lucky for having a free defect Huayra:)

        • Jose says:

          Exactly, I preordered it with them. I’ve never had a problem or QC issue buying in their website, and the only time I had an issue they solved it quickly, so I have no complaints. What is more, they checked the model out before shipping it and that’s very important for me in case it’s a defective model, so we save unnecessary time for returns. It’s shocking to read the experience you had, bro, at least there are tons of sellers where we can purchase:)

          • Karsten says:

            I had the same experience with them for years and thousands of Euros as you … until last year and that one model returned. From then each of my orders were denied and finally my account deleted, including my pre-orders. A newly created account was cancelled as soon as I submitted an order.
            Unfortunately, some models are elusive, far later or infinitely more expensive from other sellers. I wanted the black Huayra R. Almost Real models orginally were why I turned to Small Ants. And DS profited by early reviews of the respective models. Sadly, this is over now.

  5. Amin says:

    What a great shots. thank you jose

    The aquamarin blue carbon fibre is my most favorite shade.
    I think both AA and LCD wil produce this shade.

  6. Cyril esteve says:

    I preordered the carbon blue last year, no release date yet… 399 euros, Best price fond in France.

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