The MP4/1C was third modification of the MP4/1 introduced in 1981. The major changes were in response to ground-effect ban and mandatory flat floor. The full length side-pods were replaced by ‘coke bottle’ shaped side-pods that tapered inwards aft of the radiators. The car powered by atmospheric Cosworth engine was not a major contender to victories. However Watson and Lauda scored a very impressive 1-2 victory at Long Beach after starting from the back of the grid. The 4/1C actually was an interim model in the anticipation of the TAG-Porsche turbo engines. The turbo McLaren designated as MP4/1E were ready for the Dutch Grand Prix. But the new car was too fresh, and both Lauda and Watson were unable to get it to the finish line in the majority of the starts at the end of the 1983 season. The scale model by Minichamps represents the Watson’s Long Beach winning MP4/1C.
| Season | Series | Event |
| 1983 | F1WC | USA West GP |
| Driver | No. | Entrant |
| John Watson | 7 | Marlboro McLaren International |
| Scale | Manufacturer | Collection |
| 1:43 | Minichamps | McLaren Collection Edition 43 no. 139 |
| Cat. No. | Quality | Rarity |
| 530834307 | 
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