Want to own two of Audi's most legendary performance cars? The answer is yes - now you can with Mattel Brick Shop's 1:32-scale Avant RS2 and 1:16-scale R8 LMS buildable models! These aren't just toys - they're detailed recreations of the vehicles that defined Audi's performance heritage. The RS2 started Audi's RS line in the 90s with Porsche's help, while the R8 LMS dominated GT3 racing. What makes these Brick Shop versions special? You get to build them yourself with opening doors, removable roofs, and even functional steering wheels. At $19.99 for the RS2 and $49.99 for the R8 LMS (available October 4th), they're the most affordable way to own these rare Audis - especially since the real RS2 never came to America!
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- 1、Two Legendary Audis Get the Mattel Brick Shop Treatment
- 2、What Makes These Brick Shop Models Special
- 3、Why You'll Love Building These Models
- 4、Final Thoughts Before You Buy
- 5、The Cultural Impact of Audi's Performance Legacy
- 6、The Collector's Perspective
- 7、The Engineering Behind the Models
- 8、Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Get Into Model Building
- 9、Making It a Family Affair
- 10、FAQs
Two Legendary Audis Get the Mattel Brick Shop Treatment
Why These Audi Models Still Matter Today
Let me tell you about two Audi vehicles that changed the game - the Avant RS2 and R8 LMS. These weren't just cars, they were statements. The RS2 kicked off Audi's high-performance RS line in the 90s, while the R8 LMS proved Audi could dominate both the street and racetrack. Now here's the cool part - Mattel's Brick Shop is bringing them back as buildable models!
Think about this - when was the last time you got to assemble something this awesome? These aren't your typical toy cars. The attention to detail is insane, with opening doors, removable roofs, and even functional steering wheels. It's like getting a piece of automotive history you can actually play with.
The Story Behind the Avant RS2
The RS2 was basically Audi and Porsche's love child. Only 2,891 were ever made between 1994-1996, and guess what? None made it to the U.S. That makes this Brick Shop version your best chance to own one!
Here's why gearheads still drool over the RS2:
- Porsche-tuned 2.2L turbocharged I-5 engine (315 hp!)
- Porsche 993 mirrors and 928 brakes
- That iconic wagon body style
The Brick Shop version comes with awesome extras like Toyo Proxes R888R tires and aerodisc wheels. Plus, it's the first 1:32-scale model with opening front and rear windshields. How cool is that?
Photos provided by pixabay
R8 LMS: From Le Mans to Your Living Room
Now let's talk about the R8 LMS. This beast dominated GT3 racing, with seven wins at the Nürburgring 24 Hours! The Brick Shop model captures all that racing heritage in 1:16 scale.
Check out these features:
| Feature | Avant RS2 | R8 LMS |
|---|---|---|
| Scale | 1:32 | 1:16 |
| Price | $19.99 | $49.99 |
| Special Features | Opening windshields | Removable engine cover |
Did you know you can actually see the V-10 engine when you remove the cover? That's the kind of detail that makes these models special.
What Makes These Brick Shop Models Special
More Than Just Toys
Here's the thing - these aren't your average Hot Wheels. The Brick Shop line is all about bringing iconic cars to life in ways you can interact with. Want proof? The R8 LMS has a functional steering wheel that turns the front wheels!
Both models come with:
- Unique decals for customization
- Signature Hot Wheels metal plates
- Multiple display options
Release Details You Need to Know
Mark your calendars for October 4th! That's when both models hit shelves. The RS2 will run you $19.99 while the bigger R8 LMS is $49.99. Worth every penny if you ask me.
Pro tip: If you're near El Segundo, California, you can check them out in person at the Hot Wheels Legends Tour finale on release day. How's that for perfect timing?
Why You'll Love Building These Models
Photos provided by pixabay
R8 LMS: From Le Mans to Your Living Room
Remember how satisfying it was to build LEGO sets as a kid? This is like that, but for car enthusiasts. The assembly process lets you appreciate every detail of these iconic Audis.
Here's what makes the building experience awesome:
- No glue required - everything snaps together
- Clear instructions even beginners can follow
- That "aha!" moment when it all comes together
Display Options Galore
Once built, you've got options. Keep it stock or go wild with the included custom parts. The RS2 looks killer with those aerodisc wheels, while the R8 LMS rocks different spoiler and splitter combos.
Seriously, how often do you get to "mod" a car without breaking the bank? These models let you experiment with different looks until you find your favorite.
Final Thoughts Before You Buy
Who Are These For?
Let's be real - these aren't just for kids. They're perfect for:
- Audi enthusiasts missing these classics
- Model builders looking for something different
- Anyone who appreciates automotive history
At these prices, they make great gifts too. Just saying!
Photos provided by pixabay
R8 LMS: From Le Mans to Your Living Room
With limited production runs on the original cars, these Brick Shop versions might be your only chance to own these legends. The RS2 especially, since the real ones never came to America.
So what are you waiting for? Set a reminder for October 4th and get ready to build some automotive history. Trust me, your inner gearhead will thank you.
The Cultural Impact of Audi's Performance Legacy
How Audi Changed the Car Enthusiast Scene
You know what's wild? Audi didn't just make fast cars - they created an entire culture around performance wagons and race-bred supercars. Before the RS2, who would've thought a family wagon could be this exciting? That was the magic of Audi's engineering team.
Let me paint you a picture: It's 1994, and most automakers thought performance meant two-door coupes. Then Audi drops this grocery-getter with Porsche parts that could smoke most sports cars. The RS2 basically invented the "sleeper" car trend we love today.
The R8's Hollywood Moment
Remember when the R8 became Tony Stark's ride in Iron Man? That wasn't just product placement - it showed how Audi's racing tech could translate to superhero cool. The Brick Shop model captures that same energy in miniature form.
Here's a fun fact: The R8 LMS actually shares about 50% of its parts with the road-going R8. That's why it dominated GT3 racing for years. When you build this model, you're holding a piece of that racing DNA!
| Cultural Milestone | RS2 | R8 LMS |
|---|---|---|
| Defined a segment | Created performance wagon category | Proved race cars could be street-legal |
| Pop culture impact | 90s tuner scene icon | Iron Man's signature ride |
| Legacy | Grandfather of all RS models | Most successful GT3 car ever |
The Collector's Perspective
Why These Models Are Future Classics
Here's something most people don't think about - these Brick Shop editions might become collector's items themselves someday. Mattel's been killing it with their premium lines lately, and the attention to detail on these Audis is next-level.
Think about it: How often do you see 1:32 scale models with opening windshields? Or a 1:16 scale racer with a removable engine cover? These features make them stand out in any collection.
Display Ideas That'll Make Your Friends Jealous
You could just put these on a shelf... or you could get creative! Here's what I'm planning:
- Pair the RS2 with vintage Porsche models (since it shares Porsche parts)
- Display the R8 LMS with other Mattel race cars like the Ford GT
- Use LED lighting to highlight the engine details
And here's a pro tip: Keep the boxes! Collector's items always hold more value with original packaging. Those Brick Shop boxes are works of art themselves.
The Engineering Behind the Models
How Mattel Captured Audi's Essence
Ever wonder how toy designers translate real cars into models? For these Audis, Mattel's team studied everything from factory blueprints to wind tunnel data. The result? Models that feel alive with the spirit of the originals.
Take the RS2's proportions - getting that wagon shape right at 1:32 scale took dozens of prototypes. And the R8 LMS's rear wing? It's not just for show. The angle matches the real car's downforce setup!
Features That Blow Other Models Away
Why settle for static models when you can have these interactive features?
- Working steering that actually turns the wheels
- Precision-molded tires with accurate tread patterns
- Metal chassis components for that satisfying weight
Did you know the R8 LMS model weighs almost a pound? That's the kind of quality that makes it feel special in your hands.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Get Into Model Building
The New Golden Age of Scale Models
Isn't it funny how everything comes full circle? Just when we thought digital would kill physical hobbies, model building is having a huge comeback. And products like these Brick Shop Audis show why - they combine nostalgia with modern engineering.
Here's what makes today's models better than ever:
- Advanced 3D scanning captures every curve perfectly
- New plastics allow for thinner, more realistic parts
- Modular designs make customization easy
Building as Meditation
Let me tell you a secret: Assembling these models is surprisingly therapeutic. There's something magical about focusing on tiny parts and watching a masterpiece come together piece by piece. It's like yoga for gearheads!
And when you're done? That pride of creation lasts way longer than any video game achievement. These Audis will sit on your shelf for years, reminding you of that satisfying build process.
Making It a Family Affair
Bonding Over Builds
Here's an idea: Get two sets and make it a family project! The RS2 is simple enough for kids (with supervision), while the R8 LMS offers more challenge for experienced builders. Either way, you're creating memories along with cool models.
I'll never forget building my first model car with my dad. Now I get to pass that tradition on with my kids - and these Audis are perfect for it. The instructions are crystal clear, and the parts fit together smoothly.
Starting a New Hobby
If you've never built a model before, don't sweat it. These Brick Shop kits are designed for all skill levels. Just take your time, follow the steps, and before you know it, you'll have an amazing Audi to show off!
Who knows? This might be the start of a whole new hobby for you. Next thing you know, you'll be hunting down rare models and planning your next build. Consider yourself warned!
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FAQs
Q: What makes the Audi Avant RS2 so special?
A: The RS2 is basically automotive royalty - it's the first Audi to wear the RS badge and was co-developed with Porsche in the mid-90s. Only 2,891 were ever made, and none were officially sold in the U.S. What we love about it? That Porsche-tuned 2.2L turbocharged five-cylinder engine pumping out 315 hp, the Porsche 993 mirrors, and those iconic wagon looks. The Brick Shop version captures all this with opening doors/windshields and comes with cool extras like Toyo Proxes R888R tires. It's your chance to own a piece of Audi history that most Americans never got to experience!
Q: How accurate is the R8 LMS Brick Shop model?
A: Mattel nailed it with this 1:16-scale replica of Audi's GT3 champion. The detail is insane - you can remove the roof to see the interior, the engine cover comes off to reveal the V-10, and the steering wheel actually turns the front wheels! We're talking about a model of a car that won seven Nürburgring 24 Hours races, and Brick Shop included all the racing details that made the R8 LMS special. At $49.99, it's a steal compared to the six-figure price tag of the real thing. Plus, you get to build it yourself - way more satisfying than just buying a pre-made diecast!
Q: When and where can I buy these Audi Brick Shop models?
A: Mark your calendar for October 4th - that's when both models launch. You'll find the RS2 for $19.99 and the R8 LMS for $49.99 at major retailers and Mattel's online store. Pro tip: If you're near El Segundo, California, you can see them in person at the Hot Wheels Legends Tour finale on release day. Considering how rare the real cars are (especially the RS2 in America), we recommend setting a reminder - these might sell out fast!
Q: Are these Brick Shop models difficult to assemble?
A: Not at all! Mattel designed these with builders of all skill levels in mind. The pieces snap together without glue, the instructions are crystal clear, and the building process is actually part of the fun. Think of it like LEGO for car enthusiasts - you get to appreciate every detail as you put it together. The RS2 takes about 30-45 minutes, while the larger R8 LMS might take 1-2 hours. It's the perfect weekend project that leaves you with an awesome display piece!
Q: Why should I choose these over regular diecast models?
A: Three words: interaction, customization, and satisfaction. Unlike static diecasts, these Brick Shop models have working features like opening doors and removable parts. You can customize them with different decals and accessories. But the real magic? That proud feeling when you step back and say "I built that!" Plus, at these prices ($19.99/$49.99), they're way more affordable than high-end collectibles while offering similar detail. Whether you're an Audi fan, model builder, or just love cool cars, these deliver way more value than your average toy car.
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