Franklin Mint 98124 1:48 Lockheed F-104G Starfighter Aeronautica Militare 4-27 Ferrari Red Special Scheme

An exceptionally distinctive and highly detailed 1:48 scale diecast representation of Lockheed F-104G Starfighter MM6546, finished in the spectacular Ferrari-red “4-27” commemorative colour scheme. Released within the Franklin Mint / Armour Collection under model code 98124, also associated with reference B11B285, this substantial collector model recreates one of the most unusual Starfighters ever presented by the Aeronautica Militare Italiana.

The striking scheme dates from 1989 and commemorates the long-standing connection between the Italian Air Force, Ferrari and the famous Prancing Horse emblem. The aircraft was painted entirely in a vivid Ferrari red, creating a dramatic appearance far removed from the operational camouflage and natural-metal finishes normally associated with the F-104.

The number “4-27” carries particular significance. The number 4 represents the Italian Air Force's 4° Stormo, an organisation which itself uses the famous Prancing Horse insignia historically associated with Italian First World War fighter ace Francesco Baracca. The number 27 was selected in honour of Gilles Villeneuve, who famously used the number during his Formula One career with Ferrari.

The connection between Ferrari and the Starfighter was strengthened by a memorable event on 21st November 1981, when Formula One cars and Italian Air Force F-104s took part in a series of acceleration contests at Istrana Air Base. Gilles Villeneuve participated in his Ferrari 126 CK, creating an unusual meeting between two icons of Italian motorsport and military aviation.

On 17th September 1989, F-104G MM6546 was presented in its special red scheme as part of the association between the 4° Stormo and Ferrari Club Italia. The red paint itself was supplied by Ferrari, while the aircraft retained Italian national markings and the distinctive Prancing Horse symbolism connecting the two organisations.

The retired aircraft was subsequently placed at Ferrari's Fiorano test circuit near Maranello, where it became a particularly unusual preserved example of the legendary Starfighter. Its brilliant red finish and large 4-27 markings have made MM6546 instantly recognisable among preserved F-104s.

Designed by Lockheed's Clarence “Kelly” Johnson, the F-104 Starfighter first flew in 1954. Its extremely thin wings, powerful General Electric J79 turbojet engine and highly streamlined fuselage were designed around exceptional speed and climbing performance, resulting in one of the most distinctive combat aircraft of the Cold War.

Italy became one of the most important and longest-serving operators of the Starfighter family. Italian-built aircraft were manufactured under licence by FIAT, and successive F-104G, F-104S and upgraded variants remained in Aeronautica Militare service for decades, with Italy becoming the final major military operator to retire the type.

This retired Franklin Mint / Armour Collection release has considerable display presence in its large 1:48 scale. The model features heavyweight diecast construction, the striking all-red commemorative finish, large 4-27 identification markings, Italian national insignia, a detailed cockpit beneath the clear canopy, finely reproduced undercarriage, slender Starfighter wings, characteristic wingtip tanks and detailed engine exhaust section.

Fact Sheet

Model Dimensions

Model Condition - Very Good (7/10)

• The model is in very good condition overall, with no breakages present.
• A few concentrated areas of small, clustered paint bubbling are present to the topside of the fuselage, nose, tail section and underside.
• The paint bubbling is generally quite well disguised and can be difficult to capture clearly in photographs, but it is present.
• The side decal on the nose has some wear and has become slightly more opaque with age.
• Despite the noted imperfections, the model still displays very well overall.

Box condition - Excellent (8/10)

• The box is in excellent condition for its age and remains structurally sound.
• Some shelf wear is present.

Photographed under studio lighting to highlight even the smallest imperfections. Buy with confidence, what you see is exactly what you get.

Any imperfections are shown in the images and description. Refer to the grading tab for more details. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.