The Best LEGO Cars Guide

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Today, the best LEGO cars are published as stand-alone toys and as parts of sets inspired by different topics.

LEGO Technic John Deere 9620R 4WD Tractor 42136 Model Building Kit

Moreover, the toymaker offers a variety of trucks, off-road vehicles, and heavy-duty vehicles such as tractors or bulldozers. Some LEGO cars can have advanced functions like working steering systems or Bluetooth connectivity, while others are equipped with only basic features.

LEGO Technic App-Controlled Cat D11 Bulldozer

In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the best active car-themed LEGO sets and provide you with the information you need to decide which model is the right option for you.

Bottom Line Up Front

I think that the Lamborghini Sián FKP 37 42115 is one of the best LEGO build-to-display sets for adult fans of luxury sports cars. On the other hand, affordable models like the Police Car 60312 or Lotus Evija 76907 are excellent for newcomers to the LEGO world.

LEGO Technic Lamborghini Sián FKP 37

A Brief History of LEGO Cars

One of the crucial moments in the development of LEGO cars took place in 1962 when the company introduced wheel parts to its sets. This component has made producing a wide range of vehicle toys possible.

Nonetheless, these early LEGO cars had simple designs as most models had low piece counts. The Technic product line created in 1977 has introduced a wide array of gear, beams, and motor elements that unlocked new building possibilities.

Consequently, LEGO started releasing cars with functioning steering and suspension systems. The company released 486 sets within this theme in the last four decades, including 31 models with power functions.

Toy cars were also an integral part of the LEGO Town theme introduced in 1978, which contained sets based on urban topics. Building kits published in this theme often featured taxis, police cars, motorcycles, fire trucks, and other vehicles.

See also: The best LEGO fire trucks

Cars in Different LEGO Themes

Toy cars appear in sets released in several LEGO themes, and even models inspired by Spider-Man or other Marvel movies can feature cars. However, most stand-alone car sets are published within Speed Champions and Technic themes. Let’s go through LEGO themes that feature sets inspired by cars.

Speed Champions

LEGO has released more than fifty sets within this theme since 2015. Cars manufactured by brands like Ferrari, Audi, McLaren, Chevrolet, Jaguar, Ford, Porsche, Bugatti, or Lamborghini are the theme’s main subject. None of the active sets in this theme are designed exclusively for adult LEGO fans.

Here are a few of the theme’s most popular models:

Low piece counts and affordable prices are some of the key characteristics of Speed Champions sets. Our guide to the best LEGO Speed Champions sets can help you learn more about this theme.

Ford GT Heritage Edition and Bronco R

Technic

Aside from the Race Plane 42117, all other active sets in the Technic theme are based on land vehicles, including twelve models inspired by cars. These sets usually have more than a thousand pieces, and they enable you to build accurate replicas of Ford, Porsche, or Ferrari cars.

LEGO Technic Land Rover Defender

Here are some of the most popular models:

See also: LEGO Jeep review

City

Cars featured in sets from this theme aren’t based on specific real-life models, and they’re rarely the only toy in the set.

LEGO City Passenger Airplane

The following LEGO City sets feature toy cars:

See also: The best LEGO City Sets

Creator Expert, Creator 3-in-1, and Ninjago are also among themes that feature sets inspired by cars.

Active Car-Themed LEGO Sets

More than a hundred active LEGO sets feature different types of cars. Most of these models were released in the last few years, and their average shelf life is between 18 and 24 months.

In addition, some LEGO cars have a ‘Hard to Find’ label that indicates limited availability, and you might not be able to find these models in LEGO-certified stores. LEGO cars are made for different age groups, and models suitable for children under ten usually have fewer than a thousand pieces.

LEGO Duplo theme aimed at toddlers also contains a variety of sets that feature toy cars.

LEGO DUPLO Parking Garage and Car Wash

Here are some of the most sought-after models from this theme:

Top tip: Active sets are often offered at discounted prices, so you don’t necessarily have to pay the full price for the LEGO car you like. 

The Risks of Buying Discontinued Car-Themed LEGO Sets

Retired LEGO cars remain available on the market as long as retailers have them in stock. However, their prices increase significantly after the exit date often turning them into overpriced options.

Some online retailers offer models that were discontinued years ago, so you can still find sets like App-Controlled Top Gear Rally Car 42109 or Porsche 911 GT3 RS 42056 that went out of production a while ago.

LEGO Technic App-Controlled Top Gear Rally Car 42109 Racing Toy Building Kit

Top tip: Take time to read the reviews if you’re considering a retired LEGO car because doing so can help you determine if the retailer is trustworthy. 

Finding replacement parts for discontinued LEGO cars, especially if the model contained a high amount of unique pieces. So, you need to consider the availability of spare parts if you’d like to get a retired model.

Buying discontinued sets can be an excellent way to expand your collection of LEGO cars and increase the collection’s value.

Upcoming LEGO Cars

LEGO frequently adds new models to Technic, Speed Champions, and other themes that feature sets inspired by cars. The toymaker has already released several sets in Speed Champions and Technic themes since the start of 2022, including models like Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 42138 and Lotus Evija 76907.

LEGO Technic Ford Mustang Shelby

The Technic theme should get three new sets by the end of summer, including Ferrari Daytona SP3 42143 model with 3,778 pieces, but the model’s official release date is still unknown. Speed Champions theme should get Fast & Furious 1970 Dodge Charger 76912 and 007 Aston Martin DB5 76911 sets.

These sets are scaled-down versions of Creator Expert and Technic models that are retiring soon. According to rumors, LEGO is planning to release 17 new sets in the City theme, but most of these models won’t feature cars.

See also: The Best LEGO Ferrari sets

Piece Counts of Car-Themed LEGO Sets

None of the biggest LEGO sets are inspired by cars. However, car models from the Technic theme can have more than 3,000 parts. With 3,696 pieces, the Lamborghini Sián FKP 37 42115 is the largest LEGO car you can get, while the Bugatti Chiron 42083 is the second-largest LEGO car with 3,599 pieces.

Creator Expert sets like Ford Mustang 10265 or Porsche 911 10295 have similar piece counts to Technic models such as Porsche 911 RSR 42096 and Ferrari 488 GTE ‘AF Course’ #51 42125. Hence, building sets from both of these themes require previous experience.

LEGO Technic Bugatti Chiron

The Speed Champions theme doesn’t feature sets with more than a thousand pieces, while only six sets have more than 500 pieces. Models from this theme are made for inexperienced young LEGO builders, and assembling them usually takes less than an hour.

Car sets from the City theme also have low piece counts as most models that feature these toys have less than a thousand parts.

Top tip: Building several LEGO cars with fewer than 500 pieces can help you prepare for the challenges of constructing a complex Technic or Creator Expert set. 

Prices of LEGO Cars

Finding a LEGO car that fits your budget isn’t difficult because LEGO offers these toys in all price ranges. Speed Champions and City themes feature a variety of affordable sets, as some models are priced under $10.

Moreover, only two active Speed Champions sets cost close to $50, while most sets in this theme cost around $20. LEGO Technic cars are more expensive, and you’ll have to spend at least $50 on a model with 400 to 800 pieces.

The theme’s most expensive car models cost between $350 and $400 but keep in mind that some online retailers ask up to $600 for these sets. Active Creator Expert car sets cost $200, and you shouldn’t spend more on car replicas from this theme.

See also: Most Expensive LEGO sets

The Key Factors to Consider while Choosing LEGO Cars

  • Which car model do you want to build?
  • Playsets vs. build-to-display sets
  • How many accessories and Minifigures does a set have?
  • Recommended age group
  • LEGO car’s price
  • Retired vs. active sets

The Advantages of LEGO Cars

All LEGO cars come with building instructions booklets

Besides featuring illustrations for each step of the construction process, these booklets often contain information about the car model the set’s based on. So, in addition to guiding the builder through the assembly process, building instruction booklets are also informative.

Suitable for LEGO fans of all ages

Toy cars featured in Duplo, City, Creator 3-in-1, and Speed Champions themes are designed for children aged ten or younger. On the other hand, most models from Creator Expert and Technic themes are aimed at teenage or adult LEGO builders.

Stunning details and fun features

LEGO build-to-display car sets let you construct accurate replicas of some of the most famous sports cars in the world. These models usually have functioning steering systems, engines with moving pistons, and other details that contribute to the replica’s realism.

Compatible with other LEGO sets

Pairing a LEGO car with a set inspired by urban, racing, or movie topics can help you extend its range of play options or create an elaborate display setting.

LEGO cars are made for all budgets

These LEGO toys are available in all price ranges, and you can get a model that costs less than $10 or more than $100.

LEGO Creator Expert Ford Mustang

The Disadvantages of LEGO Cars

Some models don’t feature accessories or Minifigures

The range of play options these toys offer is somewhat limited by the lack of Minifigures and automotive-themed accessories.

LEGO cars have limited action play potential

Although they are generally sturdy, pieces of some LEGO cars come off easily during active play. Hence, most models have to be handled with care.

Selection Criteria

LEGO offers a broad spectrum of sets inspired by different types of vehicles, while more than a hundred models feature toy cars. Hence, choosing the best LEGO cars wasn’t easy because I had to take a large number of sets into consideration during the selection process.

I utilized several parameters to shortlist car sets that have a lot to offer to all LEGO fans regardless of their age. Here are some of the key criteria I used to select LEGO cars featured in this article.

  • Set’s piece count – This parameter has helped me identify simple sets that are easy to build and complex build-to-display models with long and challenging construction processes.
  • Release date – I used this criterion to exclude all LEGO car models that are no longer in production.

See also: The best LEGO Corvette sets

Top 20 LEGO Cars

1. Lamborghini Sián FKP 37 42115

Lamborghini Sián

  • Piece count: 3,696
  • Age group: 18+
  • Theme: Technic

Fans of sports cars and challenging LEGO builds will enjoy constructing the Lamborghini Sián FKP 37 42115 set. The replica of this super sports car has an eight-speed sequential transmission that is activated by a paddle gearshift.

The V12 engine with moving pistons, 4-wheel drive, disc brakes, and suspension system are also among the authentic features of this beautiful display model. The opening scissor doors reveal a detailed interior with a functioning steering wheel and dashboard.

2. Fast & Furious Dom’s Dodge Charger 42111

LEGO Technic Fast & Furious Dom's Dodge Charger

  • Piece count: 1,077
  • Age group: 10+
  • Theme: Technic

Even though it doesn’t have a high piece count, constructing the Fast & Furious Dom’s Dodge Charger 42111 set still takes close to five hours. The 15-inch long replica of the 1970s Dodge Charger R/T has a wheelstand bar that lets you switch between different display poses.

The V8 engine with moving pistons, a wishbone suspension, an air blower, and a working steering system are among the features this LEGO car offers. The set features several references to the Fast & Furious movie, like the two nitro bottles located in the trunk.

3. Ford Mustang 10265

Ford Mustang

  • Piece count: 1,471
  • Age group: 16+
  • Theme: Creator Expert

Nearly three years after its release, the Ford Mustang 10265 is still one of the best cars in the toymaker’s product portfolio. The replica of this muscle car has a beautiful dark blue color with two centrally positioned white stripes.

This display LEGO car is equipped with a V8 engine, and it has a removable roof panel that grants you access to its interior. The set features several accessories like a ducktail spoiler and supercharger air compressor that enable you to switch between different builds.

See also: LEGO Mustang review

4. The Batman – Batmobile 42127

LEGO Technic The Batman

  • Piece count: 1,360
  • Age group: 10+
  • Theme: Technic

You already know how impressive the Batmobile looks on the big screen if you’ve seen the latest Batman movie. The Batman – Batmobile 42127 set lets you construct the most recent version of the superhero’s car stacked with fun features.

Lifting the car’s hood exposes the 8-cylinder engine with functioning pistons, while opening the doors enables you to put the front steering and rear differential into action. The Batmobile replica features two light bricks that illuminate the car’s front and rear sections.

5. Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro & Aston Martin Vantage GT3 76910

LEGO Speed Champions Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro and Aston Martin Vantage GT3

  • Piece count: 592
  • Age group: 9+
  • Theme: Speed Champions

LEGO released the Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro & Aston Martin Vantage GT3 76910 set at the begging of March 2022, and just a few months later, it is already one of the most popular Speed Champions models.

Two racecars have only basic features, and they’re not equipped with the pullback function. So, constructing miniature replicas of these Aston Martin cars shouldn’t take more than a few hours. Two driver Minifigures, racing helmets, wigs, and wrenches are also included in the set.

6. Lotus Evija 76907

LEGO Speed Champions Lotus Evija

  • Piece count: 247
  • Age group: 8+
  • Theme: Speed Champions

The Lotus Evija 76907 set is inspired by the first all-electric car produced in Britain. The six-inch-long replica accurately recreates the lines and design features of the original vehicle.

However, this toy doesn’t have an engine, a steering system, or other advanced features models from Creator Expert and Technic themes offer. Its interior is spacious enough to fit the driver Minifigure in a racing suit behind the steering wheel.

This set doesn’t offer a lot of play options, but you can combine it with other Speed Champions models if you want to stage exciting races.

7. Police Car 60312

LEGO City Police Car

  • Piece count: 94
  • Age group: 5+
  • Theme: City

Developing set-building skills takes years of practice. A set like the Police Car 60312 enables you to introduce your child to the LEGO world from an early age and teach them to build LEGO cars.

This toy has cool features like a metallic hood scoop, stylish rims, and a removable roof that allows kids to place the Minifigure in the driver’s seat. The police officer Minifigure has a uniform costume, a cap, and a flashlight accessory he can use to investigate crime scenes.

8. Ford F-150 Raptor 42126

LEGO Technic Ford F-150 Raptor

  • Piece count: 1,379
  • Age group: 18+
  • Theme: Technic

Pickup trucks from Ford’s F-Series are famous for their power and practicality. The Ford F-150 Raptor 42126 set lets you construct a 16.5-inch long display model of the 2021 version of this car along with its stunning details.

This replica has suspension on all four wheels, a steering system, a V6 engine with moving pistons, and an opening truck bed door. Reaching the car’s interior is easy since you have to open one of its four doors to gain access to the front or back seats.

9. Fiat 500 10271

LEGO Creator Expert Fiat 500 Model car

  • Piece count: 960
  • Age group: 16+
  • Theme: Creator Expert

The Fiat 500 10271 set is inspired by the 1960s Fiat 500F model, one of the most stylish Italian cars ever made. The replica of this iconic car has a rear-mounted air-cooled engine hidden behind a hatch with the suitcase accessory attached to it and the opening front hood that reveals a spare tire.

The roof has a roll-back element that allows you to place the easel and painting accessories inside the vehicle. The car’s interior doesn’t contain a lot of details, and its dashboard only features a speedometer. The construction process takes around four hours.

10. McLaren Formula 1 Race Car 42141

LEGO Technic McLaren Formula 1

  • Piece count: 1,432
  • Age group: 18+
  • Theme: Technic

The first Technic Formula one set, McLaren Formula 1 Race Car 42141, was the result of the collaboration between LEGO and McLaren. This remarkable replica captures the curves of the original car and features authentic branding.

The Formula 1 model is based on the car’s most recent version. It has a V6 cylinder engine and differentials for accurate cornering, suspension, and steering systems. The building instructions booklet includes trivia about this vehicle and comparison photos of the assembled LEGO replica and the original model.

11. Porsche 911 10295

LEGO Porsche 911

  • Piece count: 1,458
  • Age group: 18+
  • Theme: Creator Expert

You shouldn’t miss out on the Porsche 911 10295 set if you’re a fan of vintage sports cars and German car design. This Creator Expert model grants you access to pieces you need to construct replicas of Turbo and Targa versions of this emblematic car.

The display model is equipped with a rear-mounted air-cooled, flat-six engine, emergency brake, and a functioning steering system. Its interior has tilting seats, a detailed dashboard, and an angled steering wheel. The set comes with American, Japanese, and European versions of license plates.

See also: The best LEGO Porsche sets

12. Porsche 911 RSR 42096

LEGO Technic Porsche 911

  • Piece count: 1,580
  • Age group: 10+
  • Theme: Technic

A highly detailed interior equipped with a radar screen, fire extinguisher, and a map of the Laguna Seca circuit are some of the highlights of the Porsche 911 RSR 42096 set.

Exterior details like the aerodynamic side mirrors, authentic headlights, ‘swan neck’ rear wing mounts, and black spoked rims contribute to the replica’s realism. The display model has a six-cylinder boxer engine located next to the rear axle, an independent suspension system, and functioning differentials.

The only downside is that the construction process can be overwhelming for young LEGO builders.

13. Mercedes-AMG F1 W12 E Performance & Mercedes-AMG Project One 76909

LEGO Speed Champions Mercedes-AMG F1 W12 E Performance & Mercedes-AMG Project One 76909 Building Kit

  • Piece count: 564
  • Age group: 9+
  • Theme: Speed Champions

Constructing the Mercedes-AMG F1 W12 E Performance & Mercedes-AMG Project One 76909 set isn’t difficult, and even kids under nine can assemble these toy cars effortlessly. The 7.5-inch long replica of the Formula One racing car is inspired by the vehicle designed Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One team.

The replica of the Mercedes-AMG Project One is based on the upcoming sports hybrid car equipped with Formula One-derived technology. Two driver Minifigures in racing suits and removable helmets can test the capabilities of these powerful cars or repair them with the wrench accessory.

14. McLaren Senna GTR 42123

LEGO Technic McLaren Senna GTR

  • Piece count: 830
  • Age Group: 10+
  • Theme: Technic

An affordable price and a straightforward assembly process are some of the advantages of the McLaren Senna GTR 42123 set. This display model has all characteristics of LEGO Technic sets, including a V8 engine with working pistons or a functioning steering system.

The toy’s exterior has the same color as the vehicle it’s based on, while most decorations come from a sticker sheet. The small and underwhelming interior lacks a dashboard or references to the original car.

See also: LEGO McLaren review

15. Mopar Dodge// SRT Top Fuel Dragster & 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A 76904

LEGO Speed Champions Mopar Dodge

  • Piece count: 627
  • Age group: 8+
  • Theme: Speed Champions

Like all sets from the Speed Champions theme, the Mopar Dodge//SRT Top Fuel Dragster & 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A 76904 doesn’t offer a rewarding construction experience.

However, this collectible playset features two remarkable toy cars inspired by some of Dodge’s most recognizable race cars. The dragster toy is modeled after the 2020 version of the vehicle, and it has an opening cockpit like the original racecar.

The purple and black miniature replica of the 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A has a variety of decorative details, and it can accommodate the driver Minifigure.

16. Bugatti Chiron 42083

LEGO Technic Bugatti Chiron

  • Piece count: 3,599
  • Age group: 16+
  • Theme: Technic

After nearly four years on the market, the Bugatti Chiron 42083 is still one of the best LEGO Technic sets. This model is in high demand, which is why its exit date was postponed to the end of 2022. A brief look at the set’s specification is enough to understand what makes it unique.

The manufacturer labels the car’s W16 engine as its most sophisticated can engine. Moreover, the construction process mimics the production of a real Bugatti car.

This collectible display model has a variety of remarkable features, including an eight-speed gearbox or an active rear wing that is activated with a top speed key.

17. 1970 Ferrari 512 M 76906

LEGO Speed Champions 1970 Ferrari 512 M

  • Piece count: 291
  • Age group: 8+
  • Theme: Speed Champions

The range of play options the 1970 Ferrari 512 M 76906 offers is limited because the set has just one Minifigure and no accessories aside from the wig and crash helmet. Combining this set with other models from Speed Champions theme improves its playability.

The toy car is 4.5 inches long, and its exterior accurately captures the lines of the original 1970 Ferrari 512 M model. Although small, the toy’s cockpit can accommodate the driver Minifigure for an entertaining racing experience.

18. Street Racer 31127

LEGO Creator 3in1 Street Racer

  • Piece count: 258
  • Age group: 7+
  • Theme: Creator 3-in-1

Kids can use the Street Racer 31127 set to construct a hot rod, muscle car, or racecar toy, but building these toys at the same time isn’t possible. Moreover, these cars don’t feature a lot of details, and their exteriors vaguely resemble the vehicles they’re based on.

The muscle car toy has a removable roof that enables children to access its interior, while the racecar build has a characteristically low chassis. This set doesn’t contain Minifigures or car-themed accessories, which limits its playability.

19. Ferrari 488 GTE’ AF Course’ #51 42125

LEGO Technic Ferrari 488 GTE

  • Piece count: 1,677
  • Age group: 18+
  • Theme: Technic

The immersive construction process and the informative building instruction booklet are some of the reasons why the Ferrari 488 GTE’ AF Course’ #51 42125 is widely accepted as one of the best LEGO cars on the market. The impressive replica of this grand tourer racing car is 19-inches long and 8.5-inches wide.

The toy car has a V8 engine with moving pistons, front and back suspension, and opening doors. The car’s interior isn’t rich, and it only contains a working steering wheel, a dashboard composed of stickers, and the driver’s seat.

20. Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 42138

LEGO Technic Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

  • Piece count: 544
  • Age group: 9+
  • Theme: Technic

Despite a low piece count for a LEGO Technic car, the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 42318 still offers a rewarding construction experience. The toy has two pullback motors that enable it to move unassisted.

Moreover, scanning the completed model with the LEGO Technic AR app allows LEGO builders to access virtual racetracks or explore experiences created exclusively for this set. Besides using this toy car for races, you can also utilize it as a display model.

Frequently Asked Questions about LEGO Cars

Question: Do LEGO cars come with spare tires?

Answer: Most LEGO car sets don’t include spare tire pieces, but you can order these parts from the LEGO website.

Question: Can I control LEGO cars remotely?

Answer: None of the active sets with toy cars has a remote control function.

Question: Are LEGO cars available in multiple colors?

Answer: You can’t choose between different color options of LEGO cars since all models are sold in a single color pattern.

Question: Where can I buy driver Minifigures for LEGO cars?

Answer: These Minifigures are included only in Speed Champions sets, so you can either purchase a set from this theme or head over to a local LEGO store where you can create a custom driver Minifigure.

Final thoughts

Technic, Creator Expert, and Speed Champions theme feature a wide range of sets inspired by famous sports cars produced by brands like Mercedes, Ferrari, and Dodge. Moreover, sets from Duplo, Creator 3-in-1, and City themes feature toy cars that aren’t based on specific car models.

The Lamborghini Sián FKP 37 42115 is one of the best sets for adult builders searching for their next challenging LEGO project. You should consider sets like Lotus Evija 76907, Street Racer 31127, or Police Car 60312 if you’re looking for a LEGO car suitable for young LEGO fans.

I hope that this guide to the best LEGO cars has helped you find a building kit that matches your expectations. Also, our guide to the latest LEGO leaks and rumors can help you discover upcoming models inspired by classic sports cars.

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