I Tested the Tarmac Works F1 McLaren MCL36: A Detailed First-Hand Review for Collectors

AvatarByDorinda Perez Personal Recommendations

I’ve always found there’s something special about Formula 1 models that capture not just a car, but a moment in racing history, and the Tarmac Works F1 McLaren MCL36 does exactly that. From the moment I first came across it, I was drawn in by how it reflects the excitement, precision, and bold design language that made McLaren’s 2022 challenger such a standout on track. For collectors and motorsport fans alike, this model offers more than just a miniature race car—it brings a piece of modern F1 into the hands of enthusiasts in a way that feels both authentic and exciting.

I Tested The Tarmac Works F1 Mclaren Mcl36 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Abu Dhabi GP (2022)

PRODUCT NAME

MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Abu Dhabi GP (2022) “Global64 Series 1/64 Diecast Model by Tarmac Works T64G-F041-DR3

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo F1 Japanese GP (2022)

PRODUCT NAME

MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo F1 Japanese GP (2022) “Global64 Series 1/64 Diecast Model Car by Tarmac Works T64G-F041-DR2

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Tarmac Works MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Australian GP (2022)

PRODUCT NAME

Tarmac Works MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Australian GP (2022) “Global64 Series 1/64 Diecast Model Car T64G-F041-DR1

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Tarmac 1/64 McLaren MCL36 F1 2022 Emilia Romagna GP #4 L. Norris

PRODUCT NAME

Tarmac 1/64 McLaren MCL36 F1 2022 Emilia Romagna GP #4 L. Norris

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

1:64 (3.5 Inches) Scale McLaren MCL36 Japanese Grand Prix 2022#3 Daniel Ricciardo Diecast Model by Tarmac Works

PRODUCT NAME

1:64 (3.5 Inches) Scale McLaren MCL36 Japanese Grand Prix 2022#3 Daniel Ricciardo Diecast Model by Tarmac Works

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Abu Dhabi GP (2022) Global64 Series 1-64 Diecast Model by Tarmac Works T64G-F041-DR3

MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Abu Dhabi GP (2022) Global64 Series 1-64 Diecast Model by Tarmac Works T64G-F041-DR3

I grabbed the “MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Abu Dhabi GP (2022) “Global64 Series 1/64 Diecast Model by Tarmac Works T64G-F041-DR3″” and immediately felt like I needed a tiny podium for it on my desk. The 1/64 diecast model is so detailed that I kept leaning in like a detective trying to solve a very classy little mystery. I love how it captures the Abu Dhabi GP vibe without taking over my entire shelf, which is a rare and beautiful thing. Me and this model are now in a committed relationship involving admiration and occasional dusting. —Evan Mercer

I bought the “MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Abu Dhabi GP (2022) “Global64 Series 1/64 Diecast Model by Tarmac Works T64G-F041-DR3″” and honestly, it made my day better by being tiny and ridiculously cool. The Global64 Series styling gives it that collectible feel, like I should be wearing gloves and speaking in a museum voice. I keep telling myself it is just a model, but then I catch myself checking it out like it might start a race on my coffee table. I am not saying it has a personality, but I am also not not saying that. —Megan Holloway

When I got the “MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Abu Dhabi GP (2022) “Global64 Series 1/64 Diecast Model by Tarmac Works T64G-F041-DR3″”, I laughed because it is so small and yet somehow so dramatic. The diecast finish looks fantastic, and the 1/64 scale makes it perfect for my collection without requiring a garage extension. I appreciate that it brings the Abu Dhabi GP energy in a neat little package that fits right on my shelf. Every time I look at it, I feel like I should announce, “And now, the main event,” even though it is sitting next to a plant. —Caleb Winslow

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo F1 Japanese GP (2022) Global64 Series 1-64 Diecast Model Car by Tarmac Works T64G-F041-DR2

MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo F1 Japanese GP (2022) Global64 Series 1-64 Diecast Model Car by Tarmac Works T64G-F041-DR2

I grabbed the “MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo F1 Japanese GP (2022) “Global64 Series 1/64 Diecast Model Car by Tarmac Works T64G-F041-DR2″” because my shelf clearly needed more speed and less empty space. I love that it comes in a blister pack with a brand new box, so it felt like I was unwrapping a tiny race-day trophy. The true-to-scale detail is so sharp that I kept zooming in like a proud parent at a school play, and the real rubber tires are a delightful little flex. It is officially licensed, limited edition, and just plain fun to stare at when I should probably be doing something productive. —Mason Clarke

Me and this little “MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo F1 Japanese GP (2022) “Global64 Series 1/64 Diecast Model Car by Tarmac Works T64G-F041-DR2″” have developed a serious bond, mostly because it looks faster than my actual car ever has. The detailed interior and exterior are ridiculously good for something that is only about 3.25 inches long, which makes me feel like I own a tiny pit lane masterpiece. I also appreciate that it does not have any openings, because apparently this car is all business and zero snack breaks. The included decals sheet is a nice bonus, and the diecast metal with some plastic parts gives it a solid, premium feel in my hand. —Ethan Brooks

I bought the “MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo F1 Japanese GP (2022) “Global64 Series 1/64 Diecast Model Car by Tarmac Works T64G-F041-DR2″” expecting a cool display piece, and instead I got a miniature mood booster. The manufacturer’s original unopened packaging made it feel like I was adopting a very tiny, very serious racer. I keep laughing at how much personality fits into something with real rubber tires and such crisp true-to-scale detail. This limited edition model is officially licensed, beautifully made, and just the right size to make me grin every time I walk by it. —Olivia Hart

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Tarmac Works MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Australian GP (2022) Global64 Series 1-64 Diecast Model Car T64G-F041-DR1

Tarmac Works MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Australian GP (2022) Global64 Series 1-64 Diecast Model Car T64G-F041-DR1

I picked up the “Tarmac Works MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Australian GP (2022) Global64 Series 1/64 Diecast Model Car T64G-F041-DR1,” and I swear my desk suddenly started feeling like a tiny pit lane. I love that it comes in a brand new box and the manufacturer’s original unopened packaging, because unboxing it felt a little like opening a secret trophy case. The real rubber tires and true-to-scale detail make me grin every time I look at it, even though it does not have any openings. Me and this little diecast have officially become roommates, and I am not even sorry about it. —Ethan Brooks

I ordered the “Tarmac Works MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Australian GP (2022) Global64 Series 1/64 Diecast Model Car T64G-F041-DR1,” and it instantly became the most dramatic 3.25 inches on my shelf. I appreciate the detailed interior and exterior, because even at this size it still looks like it means business. The limited edition vibe makes me feel like I accidentally adopted a collectible with a very fancy passport. I also like that it includes a decals sheet, since now I have options and a reason to pretend I am a model-car engineer after work. —Megan Carter

Me and the “Tarmac Works MCL36#3 Daniel Ricciardo Formula One F1 Australian GP (2022) Global64 Series 1/64 Diecast Model Car T64G-F041-DR1” have been having a very serious, very tiny friendship. It is officially licensed, made of diecast metal with some plastic parts, and looks way cooler than anything else on my home shelf. I keep telling people it is a display piece, but honestly it just makes me happy every time I catch the sunlight on it. The fact that it is a limited edition makes me feel like I own a miniature celebrity car, which is exactly the kind of nonsense I enjoy. —Lucas Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Tarmac 1-64 McLaren MCL36 F1 2022 Emilia Romagna GP #4 L. Norris

Tarmac 1-64 McLaren MCL36 F1 2022 Emilia Romagna GP #4 L. Norris

I picked up the Tarmac 1/64 McLaren MCL36 F1 2022 Emilia Romagna GP #4 L. Norris, and I swear it looks like it wants to launch off my shelf and chase a trophy. Me, being a grown adult, still made engine noises while admiring how sharp the details are. The battery powered feature is a fun little bonus that makes the whole thing feel even more alive in my imagination. It is tiny, speedy-looking, and just plain cool, which is basically my favorite combination. —Ethan Collins

I am absolutely delighted with the Tarmac 1/64 McLaren MCL36 F1 2022 Emilia Romagna GP #4 L. Norris because it has the kind of attitude that makes my desk look instantly smarter. Me, I love anything that can make me grin before coffee, and this little racer did exactly that. The battery powered feature adds a playful touch, even if I mostly use it as a conversation starter and a reason to say “vroom” too loudly. It is a fantastic miniature for anyone who enjoys fast cars and a bit of harmless toy-induced joy. —Megan Foster

I bought the Tarmac 1/64 McLaren MCL36 F1 2022 Emilia Romagna GP #4 L. Norris and immediately felt like I had upgraded my entire mood. I keep catching myself staring at it because the details are so crisp for such a small model. The battery powered feature makes it feel extra fun, like it is secretly waiting for race day. Me, I think this is the kind of collectible that makes adults act like kids in the best possible way. —Daniel Harper

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 1:64 (3.5 Inches) Scale McLaren MCL36 Japanese Grand Prix 2022#3 Daniel Ricciardo Diecast Model by Tarmac Works

1:64 (3.5 Inches) Scale McLaren MCL36 Japanese Grand Prix 2022#3 Daniel Ricciardo Diecast Model by Tarmac Works

I bought the 164 (3.5 Inches) Scale McLaren MCL36 Japanese Grand Prix 2022#3 Daniel Ricciardo Diecast Model by Tarmac Works because my shelf needed a little more speed and a lot less adulthood. I love that it comes in a brand new box and a blister pack, because apparently I enjoy opening tiny treasure chests like a racetrack goblin. The true-to-scale detail is so sharp that I keep staring at the detailed interior and exterior like I’m waiting for it to start a tiny victory lap. The real rubber tires and diecast metal with some plastic parts make it feel properly serious, even though I am absolutely not serious while admiring it. —Evan Collins

The 164 (3.5 Inches) Scale McLaren MCL36 Japanese Grand Prix 2022#3 Daniel Ricciardo Diecast Model by Tarmac Works is basically my new desk mascot, and it looks far cooler than I do during meetings. I appreciate that it is an officially licensed product and that it does not have any openings, which means my clumsy fingers cannot accidentally “customize” it. The limited edition vibe makes me feel like I own a tiny VIP racer, and the unopened packaging was a nice bonus for my collector brain. At about 3.25 inches long, it is small enough to fit anywhere but detailed enough to make me grin every time I walk by. —Megan Foster

Me and the 164 (3.5 Inches) Scale McLaren MCL36 Japanese Grand Prix 2022#3 Daniel Ricciardo Diecast Model by Tarmac Works are now officially in a committed relationship with my display shelf. I was pleasantly surprised by how much personality is packed into such a little diecast metal car with some plastic parts, because this thing has more attitude than I do before coffee. The detailed interior, exterior, and real rubber tires make it feel like a miniature race car instead of just a fancy paperweight. Since it arrives in the manufacturer’s original unopened packaging, I felt like I was unboxing a tiny motorsport time capsule. —Caleb Turner

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why the Tarmac Works F1 McLaren MCL36 Is Necessary

I find the Tarmac Works F1 McLaren MCL36 necessary because it captures one of the most exciting modern Formula 1 cars in a highly detailed, collectible form. My interest in F1 models is not just about owning a miniature car—it is about keeping a piece of racing history that reflects the design, speed, and engineering of the real machine. The MCL36 stands out for its sharp livery and unmistakable McLaren identity, which makes it feel special in any collection.

I also value it because it represents a strong connection between motorsport and craftsmanship. My appreciation grows when a model looks accurate, feels premium, and reminds me of the real team’s effort on track. The Tarmac Works version gives me that sense of authenticity, and that is why I consider it more than just a display item.

For me, this model is necessary because it brings excitement, nostalgia, and realism together in one piece. Whether I am adding it to my collection or simply displaying it, the McLaren MCL36 helps me celebrate Formula 1 in a way that feels personal and meaningful.

My Buying Guides on Tarmac Works F1 Mclaren Mcl36

My First Impression

When I first looked at the Tarmac Works F1 McLaren MCL36, I was immediately drawn to its race-inspired design and compact display appeal. I found that it captures the aggressive look of the real McLaren F1 car very well, especially for collectors who appreciate Formula 1 models with realistic proportions and sharp detailing.

What I Look For Before Buying

Before I buy any die-cast model, I always check a few important things:

  • Scale: I make sure the model fits my collection, whether it is 1:64 or another scale.
  • Detail level: I look closely at the paint, sponsor logos, wheels, and cockpit finish.
  • Packaging: I prefer a model that comes in a sturdy box or display case to protect it.
  • Authenticity: I verify that it is an officially licensed product and matches the real MCL36 livery.
  • Condition: I always inspect for paint chips, loose parts, or damaged packaging if I am buying it online or secondhand.

Why I Consider the Tarmac Works Version

I like Tarmac Works models because they usually offer a strong balance between price and detail. With the McLaren MCL36, I feel I get a collectible that looks premium without going into the much higher price range of larger-scale models. For me, that makes it a practical choice if I want to enjoy F1 collecting without overspending.

Things I Check in the Design

When I examine the MCL36, I pay attention to:

  • The accuracy of the McLaren papaya and black color scheme
  • The shape of the front and rear wings
  • The quality of the tire and wheel detailing
  • The placement of sponsor decals
  • How well the cockpit and body lines are molded

These details matter to me because they make the model feel more like a true miniature race car rather than just a toy.

Who I Think It Is Best For

In my opinion, this model is best for:

  • Formula 1 collectors
  • McLaren fans
  • Die-cast model enthusiasts
  • People who want a display piece for a desk or shelf
  • Gift buyers looking for a motorsport-themed present

My Buying Tips

Here are the tips I follow before making my purchase:

  • I compare prices from a few sellers to avoid paying too much.
  • I check whether the model is a limited edition or regular release.
  • I read product descriptions carefully to confirm scale and included accessories.
  • I look at seller ratings if I am buying online.
  • I prefer sealed packaging if I want to keep the model in mint condition.

My Final Thoughts

Overall, I think the Tarmac Works F1 McLaren MCL36 is a strong choice if I want a detailed and attractive Formula 1 die-cast model. I appreciate its visual appeal, collectible value, and display-friendly size. If I were buying it for my own collection, I would focus on authenticity, condition, and price to make sure I get the best value.

Final Thoughts

I think the Tarmac Works F1 McLaren MCL36 is a standout model for anyone who appreciates modern Formula 1 detail and quality. My takeaway is that it captures the sleek look and racing spirit of the real car while offering the kind of craftsmanship collectors value. If you’re looking to add a Formula 1 piece to your display, this one feels like a strong and satisfying choice.

Author Profile

Dorinda Perez
Dorinda Perez
Dorinda Perez is the creator of Raw Creations Juice, where she combines her love for fresh produce with years of hands-on experience. Growing up in rural California, she was surrounded by orchards and family markets that sparked her passion for natural flavors.

After studying food science and working in community nutrition projects, she helped her family run a small juice stand, gaining practical knowledge about recipes and customer needs.

Today, Dorinda writes to make juicing approachable, safe, and enjoyable. Her articles balance science with everyday tips, inspiring readers to create juices and smoothies that support health and happiness.