Model Car Ligier JS11 blue, white and gray number 26 of 1979 - Formula 1
Echelle: 1/43ème
Pilote: Jacques Laffite
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Here is a Ligier JS11 from 1979 in its iconic blue, white and gray livery, bearing the number 26 of Jacques Laffite. This Formula 1 miniature perfectly captures the spirit of this French single-seater that made history in the World Championship in the late 70s.
This faithful reproduction is a prized piece for any motor sports enthusiast and collector of Formula 1 miniatures. It testifies to the golden age of French motorsport in Grand Prix.
Features of the miniature
- Model: Ligier JS11
- Brand: Ligier
- Year: 1979
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Blue, white and gray
- Number: 26 (Jacques Laffite)
- Protective case included: Yes
Description of the real model
The Ligier JS11 was developed in 1979 by the French team led by Guy Ligier, a former driver turned constructor. This single-seater represented the culmination of several years of experience in Formula 1 for the tricolor team. Designed by Gérard Ducarouge, it was distinguished by its elegant lines and its French color livery that made it instantly recognizable on the circuits.
Equipped with a Ford Cosworth DFV V8 3-liter engine developing about 485 horsepower, the JS11 benefited from a well-balanced aluminum monocoque chassis. Its advanced aerodynamic design for the time allowed it to be competitive against the British and Italian heavyweights of the grid. The overlapping triangle suspensions and the Hewland FG400 gearbox completed a refined technical set.
This Formula 1 enjoyed an immediate success in the 1979 World Championship, winning three races and allowing the Ligier team to finish third in the constructors' championship. Jacques Laffite at the wheel of the number 26 greatly contributed to these exceptional results for a French team.
The Ligier team in the 70s
The Ligier team was founded in 1976 by Guy Ligier, a former professional rugby player turned automobile manufacturer and then successful entrepreneur. Passionate about motorsport, he created his team in tribute to his friend Jo Schlesser, who tragically died in a race. The context in which the JS11 was created was part of a prosperous period for the French manufacturer, who aimed to establish itself durably in Formula 1.
In 1979, the Ligier team benefited from the technical support of Matra for the engines and a strong technical team led by Gérard Ducarouge. This French collaboration gave the brand a strong patriotic identity, particularly appreciated by the hexagonal public. The history of Ligier was rooted in the French motorsport tradition, inheritor of Matra's earlier successes in Formula 1.
The Ligier brand thus represented French technical excellence on international circuits. Its pragmatic approach to development, combined with a reasonable but well-used budget, allowed it to compete with the dominant British teams of the time.
A memorable 1979 season
The 1979 season will be remembered as the peak of the Ligier team. Jacques Laffite, at the wheel of this JS11 number 26, won two consecutive races at the start of the season in Argentina and Brazil, creating a sensation in the international paddock. These unexpected successes temporarily propelled the French driver to the top of the World Championship, making an entire country dream of a world title.
One of the most striking anecdotes regarding this Ligier JS11 remains its domination during the 1979 Spanish Grand Prix at Jarama. Laffite and his teammate Patrick Depailler achieved a historic 1-2 finish, giving the French team its finest day in Formula 1. This exceptional performance showed that French manufacturers could compete with Ferrari, McLaren, and Williams in the technical field.
The JS11 perfectly embodied the French spirit of the 70s, a mix of technical boldness and sporting flair. It symbolized an era when national teams could still hope to beat the heavyweights of world motorsport. This single-seater left a lasting mark on the imagination of French enthusiasts, proving that with talent and determination, David could still challenge Goliath on the Formula 1 circuits.
Driver Jacques Laffite developed a special relationship with this car, later stating that it was "the most balanced and enjoyable" he had ever driven in Formula 1. This man-machine bond greatly contributed to the exceptional performances of the whole during this memorable season.
Complete your miniature collection
This Ligier JS11 number 26 naturally finds its place in any collection dedicated to Formula 1 miniature cars. It pairs perfectly with other French single-seaters from the 1970s, a flourishing period for French motorsport.
Collectors passionate about the history of French Formula 1 will appreciate pairing it with Matra miniatures or other Ligier models available. This reproduction appeals to both nostalgia for motorsport and fans of 1/43 scale miniatures seeking historically significant pieces.
This JS11 also constitutes an excellent complement to thematic collections on French cars or race and competition cars, showcasing French technical excellence on international circuits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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