If you were tasked with making a toy version of the most iconic Porsche 911 of all time, the Carrera RS 2.7 would surely be right up there. It's instantly recognisable to just about anyone with an interest in cars, and finished in a garish shade of '70's tastefulness, the spoiler-clade sports car will be appealing to any younger petrolhead wanting something to play with.
Finished in what appears to be Chartreuse, this 1:17 model is the latest in a series of licensed cars from Playmobil. Designed for both children and adult collectors, this plastic model aims to work as both a collector's piece and something you'd quite happily dump in a toybox before bath time. We're absolutely smitten with this toy and think it has to be one of the best gift ideas you can get for a car fan, no matter their age.
Verdict: This definitive classic Porsche 911 is perfect for any petrolhead adult or child.
Score: 5/5
Pros
- Fantastic detail for a toy
- Ideal for both children and adults
Cons
- The included accessories are a little stingy
What's good?
Like all of Playmobil's licensed cars, the attention to detail is second to none, especially considering its designation as a toy and price point. Porsche nerds will appreciate the small details like the correct five-dial dashboard, Carrera stickers, Fuchs alloy wheels and modelled air-cooled engine hidden under the ducktail engine cover. Playmobil even go as far as to distinguish this model as a Touring spec RS, indicating there is a little more in the way of creature comforts on offer for the two included Playmobil figures.
Parents will appreciate that the model is built to survive the daily stresses of child play without shattering into a million pieces. A quick crash test into a skirting board saw no crumpled bumpers or cracked plastic. It's also light at 364g, ensuring that it won't be much use as a makeshift weapon between two quarrelling children.
Accessibility is also a major plus point for the toy 911. The roof lifts out to allow really easy access to the interior, allowing the two Playmobil figures to be inserted without fears of trapped fingers or little stuck pieces rattling around for eternity.
What's okay?
The real 911 2.7 RS was famed for its dynamic drive and engaging handling, factors that sadly don't translate that well into this toy version.
While some children's toys will feature working steering, suspension and even moving pistons, the Playmobil 911 only boasts two free-wheeling axles which allow the 911 to roll around in a straight line. It does feature rubber tyres but that's all it really shares with a real 911 2.7 RS. Even those Fuchs alloys are just hubcaps you attach over the bare plastic wheels.
As a toy, this means there's less to break or go wrong as it's subject to the trials and tribulations of childhood play, but working steering or some rudimentary suspension would be a nice addition.
Any negatives?
Playmobil kits are often ram-packed with small accessories to aid with imaginative play. The Playmobil VW Campervan we previously tested was particularly packed with little accessories, enough to stock an actual campervan. The Playmobil 911 RS 2.7 on the other hand was a little spartan. A picnic basket, map, blanket and three food items are the only extras you get, alongside two figures complete with a little wristwatch.
You do at least get a plaque with a nerdy spec sheet, perfect if you plan on displaying the model.
More items to consider:
How we tested this product:
The Playmobil Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 was assembled by me before being used as for the photoshoot seen throughout this article. Following this, it was tested for durability by performing a couple of crash tests. It has since been used periodically as a toy and display piece in my home.