Racing fans are well aware that the real-life Peugeot 9X8 made waves when it debuted on the World Endurance Championship grid. Its streamlined form, lack of a traditional rear wing, and hybrid powertrain represented a new direction for Le Mans prototypes. LEGO nailed that presence in bricks with the Technic Peugeot 9X8 24H Le Mans Hybrid Hypercar (set 42156), priced at $159.99 (was $200), and the finished vehicle feels like a true centerpiece rather than simply another small desktop model.
Most LEGO supercar sets are nice and compact, but this one defies the norm, measuring approximately 20 inches long and 9 inches wide when assembled. Because of the extra space, builders can develop levels of intricacy and complexity that would be impossible to achieve with smaller sets. With 1,775 pieces, this model is quite heavy, and it rewards close inspection from all angles.
- A celebration for race car fans – Pay tribute to 100 years of racing at Le Mans in 2023 with this authentic LEGO Technic PEUGEOT 9X8 24H Le Mans...
- Start your engines – Build the hybrid system including the detailed V6 piston engine. This impressive replica includes doors that open, front...
- Recreate the iconic details – Add the finishing touches to this replica model with car decals and PEUGEOT sponsor logos to capture the iconic look...
The build takes place across 19 numbered numbered bags and 5 building stages, immersing you from the start. You begin with the back chassis and the V6 piston engine, which is snuggled beneath a removable cover. When the rear wheels turn, you can see the engine trembling, providing a clear view of what is going on through side vents. The front section is next, and here’s where things get really interesting: LEGO has released a new electric motor for their Technic vehicles, composed of two massive gray barrels and some flexible components. The hybrid pattern extends throughout the drivetrain, and the best part? There is no need for batteries or remotes.
The suspension operates separately at each corner, which is unusual for a Technic design, with each axle having its own horizontal shock absorber to ensure stability. The steering is controlled by both the inside of the wheel and a little top-mounted knob, allowing you to navigate from the driver’s seat or above. The doors swing open in a delightful butterfly motion, and the overall item is strong enough to be handled with caution once completed.
Color-wise, you’re looking at a lot of dark gray and black, with some sleek lime green accents to mirror the look of the real car’s paint job. Two massive sticker sheets offer a lot of adornment, from sponsor logos to fine details, and the headlights have glow-in-the-dark parts that pick up any available light and shine in the same cool tone as the original Peugeot LEDs. At night, it’s an entirely different beast, and it’s extremely dramatic.
In terms of how closely it resembles the real 9X8, the accuracy is rather impressive, especially once all of the body panels are secured into place. The curved Technic pieces accurately reproduce the original’s striking front end, low profile, and massive rear diffuser. There are a few minor concessions in terms of height and visible connection points, but the overall shape captures the car’s aggressive, distinct style better than many people expected from a Technic build. When it’s finished, it looks right at home among photos of the original car on the Mulsanne Straight.
