Chelonian4

Sariel, do you have any plans to make a review for 42029? You've done an absolutely phenomenal job with these two reviews already, so I'm eager to see more. So far, that set has been shrouded mostly in mystery.

Between 42025 (Cargo Plane) and 9396 (Helicopter), which is the better purchase if I can only get one? Both are very similar in that they both have four main functions that can be motorized and one really cool mechanical function (the four way lever and the blade tilt, respectively). In terms of mechanical complexity and overall cleverness, how do the two compare? In a similar vein, how do 42000 (Grand Prix Racer) and 8070 (Super Car) compare on the same criteria? The Super Car contains two more functions than the Grand Prix Racer, but it costs significantly more since it is discontinued. I know 8070 comes with motors and 42000 does not, but that is not at all a significant benefit to me, considering how they were used. Thank you in advance for any advice you can give me.

You mention in your [wonderfully well-written] review that the 42030 trumps the 8265 in every way. Can you elaborate on this, please? Obviously it's larger, contains more pieces, and is motorized, but it seems like the 8265 is better in terms of price-per-part and complexity (though I may very well be mistaken). The reason I ask is because I'm trying to decide between the two, and I can get the 8265 for about $100 cheaper, so I want to be convinced that the 42030 is the superior option before making such a hefty purchase.

I'm looking for the type of set that leaves you with no option but to marvel in wonder at its designer's intellect. I have already assembled 8295, 8043, and 8273 (of which 8043 was definitely my favorite), and my initial observations point me toward 42009, 8110, 8109, and 9396 (roughly in order). Do any of these stand out as being the most clever? Are there any I should add to this list? I usually find that the larger sets are much more interesting, so I think I will limit my search to sets with at least 800 pieces. Also, as good as the earlier sets are, I would rather not spend more than $250 if possible. I do not care at all about buying sets just for the pieces (I don't intend to disassemble them except to build the other model). Thank you in advance for any advice you can provide.