This Williams FW11B number 6 from 1987 in white, blue, and yellow represents one of the most iconic single-seaters in Formula 1 history. This faithful 1/43 scale replica perfectly captures the essence of the car that helped Nelson Piquet win his third world title in a memorable season.
A true gem for motorsport enthusiasts, this miniature is a must-have piece for any collector eager to relive the great moments of Formula 1 in the 80s.
Miniature features
- Model: Williams FW11B
- Brand: Williams
- Year: 1987
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: White, blue and yellow
- Number: 6 (Nelson Piquet)
- Protective case included: Yes
The original Williams FW11B from 1987
The Williams FW11B was born in 1987 as the direct evolution of the fearsome FW11 that had dominated the previous season. This single-seater, designed by engineer Patrick Head, benefits from subtle but crucial aerodynamic improvements, especially at the level of the rear wing and sidepods. Powered by the 1.5-liter turbocharged Honda RA167E engine producing over 1000 horsepower, it represents the pinnacle of the turbo era.
The performance of this single-seater is exceptional: capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in under 3 seconds, it reaches speeds over 320 km/h on the fastest circuits. Its carbon chassis and revolutionary active suspension give it formidable efficiency on all types of tracks.
The commercial and sporting success is immediate. The FW11B allows Williams to win 9 out of 16 Grands Prix in 1987, confirming the technical supremacy of the British team during this golden decade of Formula 1.
Williams in 1987: the golden age of the team
In 1987, the Williams team went through a prosperous period under the leadership of Frank Williams and Patrick Head. The partnership with Honda as an engine supplier since 1983 bore fruit, creating one of the most formidable combinations in the paddock. This technical collaboration allowed the Grove team to effectively compete with McLaren and Ferrari.
Founded in 1977 by Frank Williams, the brand quickly established itself as a reference in technical innovation. The history of Williams Grand Prix Engineering is characterized by a constant quest for performance, symbolized by legendary victories and revolutionary innovations such as active suspension. The 80s marked the peak of this philosophy, with single-seaters that continually pushed the boundaries of automotive technology.
A season of records
Nelson Piquet's 1987 season driving this Williams FW11B is recorded in history for several extraordinary reasons. The Brazilian driver, then 34 years old, delivered an epic duel with Nigel Mansell, his British teammate driving the FW11B number 5. This internal rivalry, fueled by diametrically opposed personalities, captivated the media worldwide.
The most tantalizing anecdote of this season occurred during the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Piquet, known for his provocative statements, publicly nicknamed Mansell "the penguin" in reference to his walk after getting out of the car. This jab, reported by the British press, initiated a true psychological war between the two men, creating an electric atmosphere in the Williams paddock.
However, the Brazilian demonstrated his class at the end of the season. At the decisive Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, he perfectly managed the pressure to clinch his third and final world title. This victory, achieved under difficult conditions in pouring rain, perfectly illustrates the fighter temperament of this exceptional driver who knew how to transcend his Williams FW11B in critical moments.
This single-seater also symbolizes the peak of the turbo era in Formula 1. 1987 indeed marks the last season of these turbocharged engines that revolutionized motorsport for six years. The FW11B number 6 of Piquet thus represents the culmination of a fascinating technical era where raw power competed with aerodynamic innovation.
Complete your miniature collection
This Williams FW11B naturally finds its place in the exciting world of Formula 1 miniatures. It fits perfectly with collections dedicated to Formula 1 cars and ideally complements other models from the Williams team. Collectors passionate about 1980s automobiles will find an authentic gem.
This reproduction harmonizes particularly well with other race cars from this golden age, notably the McLaren MP4 and Ferrari F187. It will appeal to both newcomers discovering the world of miniatures and seasoned collectors looking for iconic models from 1/43 scale miniatures to complete their display cases dedicated to the legends of motorsport.
