The 2025 Formula 1 season delivered on all its promises, and to keep the passion alive, there's nothing like a faithful scale model of the single-seaters that set the tracks ablaze. The new Bburago F1 1/43 2025 models have just arrived, offering the perfect opportunity to start or expand your collection.
But with such a wide array of models available, how do you choose the perfect gem that will take pride of place on your shelf or make the perfect gift for an F1 fan ? This guide is here to help you see more clearly and make the right choice, cutting through the marketing jargon to find THE 2025 Formula 1 model car that's right for you.
Before you fall for a model, a few criteria deserve your attention.
The 1/43 scale is the king of collections. A 1/43 F1 scale model measures between 12 and 14 centimetres long on average, a format that has it all. It's large enough for the bodywork details, sponsors, and aerodynamic lines to stand out, yet compact enough to not turn your living room into a paddock. It's the perfect size to start or complete a Bburago F1 collection without needing to take up too much space.
Bburago models are made from die-cast metal, complemented by plastic components. This construction gives them a reassuring weight in hand and excellent durability. Since the devil is in the details, pay close attention to the livery (the team's colours and logos). The faithfulness of the sponsors and shades for the 2025 season is an excellent barometer of a model's quality. Don't forget to check the driver's helmet—it's the little extra that makes all the difference.
Who is the model car for? The answer changes everything.
We've carefully reviewed the new collection to pick out three iconic models that stand out for their popularity and the quality of their reproduction.
Why We Love It
The Mercedes F1 model of George Russell's W16 embodies the power and elegance of one of the most successful teams of the hybrid era. Bburago has meticulously reproduced the 2025 livery, not forgetting the British driver's detailed helmet. It's a piece that exudes the performance and expertise of the Brackley-based team.
Highlights
Who is it for? A must-have for fans of the Silver Arrows and George Russell, as well as for collectors who enjoy tracking the technical evolution of the Mercedes cars.
Why We Love It
An F1 collection without a Ferrari? Unthinkable! The Ferrari F1 model is an essential piece. The 2025 SF-25, in the hands of the talented Charles Leclerc, is an ode to the passion and heritage of the Scuderia. Its legendary red and sponsors are impeccably reproduced, making it a centrepiece for any Tifoso. Unsurprisingly, the Leclerc 1/43 version is already flying off the shelves.
Highlights
Who is it for? The obvious choice for supporters of Scuderia Ferrari and Charles Leclerc. It's also the perfect entry point for starting a collection with a legendary car.
Why We Love It
The Red Bull F1 car, the RB21, in the hands of the formidable Max Verstappen, is the embodiment of the Austrian team's dominance. This Verstappen 1/43 model captures the single-seater's aggressive stance, with its complex livery and distinctive aerodynamic shapes. It is, quite simply, the model of a winning machine.
Highlights
Who is it for? Essential for members of the Orange Army and fans of the Oracle Red Bull Racing team. It will also delight collectors who want to immortalise the cars making F1 history today.
Our selection highlights the stars of the 2025 season, but the world of model cars is virtually endless. Are you looking for another driver, a smaller team, or classic models from past eras?
To broaden your horizons, feel free to browse our vintage vehicle collection, which brings together some real gems that could round out your collector's world.
The scale refers to the size ratio between the model and the real car. A 1/43 model is 43 times smaller than the original, while a 1/18 model is 18 times smaller. In practice, 1/18 scale F1 cars are much larger (around 30 cm), more detailed (often with removable parts like the engine cover), but also more expensive and bulkier. The 1/43 scale remains the perfect compromise for building a great collection without sacrificing all your space.
No, they are primarily collector's items. The manufacturer, Bburago, specifies that they are not suitable for children under 3 years old (36 months) due to small parts that pose a choking hazard. For slightly older children (up to 8 years old), adult supervision is strongly recommended to prevent any accidents or breakages.
Minimal maintenance is all it takes to preserve the shine of your models. Regular dusting with a soft, dry cloth or a soft-bristled brush will do the trick. The main enemy is sunlight: avoid direct and prolonged exposure, which could fade the livery's colours. Above all, never use water or cleaning products, as they could damage the paint and decals.