COBI Roman Chariot vs Catapult: Ancient Rome Build Guide
By COBI Bricks: Building Blocks For Kids, Construction Block | Published: 2026-10-24
Category: Buying Guides
Compare the COBI Roman Chariot and Onager Catapult from the Imperium Romanum line. Learn which set fits your display or play style best, with honest trade-offs.
Quick answer
Choose the Roman Chariot if you want a ceremonial piece that pairs well with legionaries; pick the Onager Catapult if you prefer siege action and a more interactive build.
What makes each set different
The Roman Chariot focuses on a triumphant general entering Rome, with two white horses and a detailed driver figure. It is designed for display and narrative play alongside other Roman sets. The Onager Catapult, meanwhile, is a siege engine that throws projectiles—historically used to terrorize enemies. Its build emphasizes mechanical function, including a working arm and spoon.
Both sets are part of the Imperium Romanum line, so they share the same brick quality and historical theme. The Chariot is slightly more expensive ($16.07 vs $14.39), reflecting the two horse figures and the chariot structure.
Trade-offs to consider
The Chariot is static—once built, it is a display piece. The Catapult offers more play value because you can actually fling things (though the manual suggests using safe projectiles). If you prefer a build that doubles as a toy, the Catapult wins. If you want a centerpiece for a Roman army display, the Chariot is better.
Neither set includes a large number of pieces; both are quick builds suitable for beginners or as additions to a larger collection. The Chariot’s horses and driver add more figure variety, while the Catapult’s mechanism is more engaging for builders who like moving parts.
Decision rules for choosing between the Chariot and Catapult
- Choose the Roman Chariot if...: You want a ceremonial vehicle to lead your Roman army display. It pairs naturally with legionary figures and creates a narrative scene of a general entering Rome. Best for collectors and diorama builders who value presentation over moving parts.
- Choose the Onager Catapult if...: You prefer a functional siege engine that can actually launch projectiles. The build is more engaging due to the moving arm and spoon, and it adds tactical variety to a Roman army collection. Best for kids or builders who want a toy-like interactive experience after assembly.
- Buy both if...: You are building a complete Roman army scene. The chariot provides the command element, while the catapult adds siege capability. Together they create a richer historical display. Great for themed collections or as a gift bundle for a young history enthusiast.
Product facts at a glance
- COBI IMPERIUM ROMANUM Roman Chariot: Set #20069: The block chariot, to which two white horses are harnessed, is driven by a triumphant general, ready for a ceremonial entry into the Eternal City. This makes it an ideal display piece for Roman-themed dioramas, especially when paired with legionaries from other sets.
COBI IMPERIUM ROMANUM Roman Chariot: Set #20069 - COBI IMPERIUM ROMANUM Roman Onager Catapult: Set #20068: The Onager catapult threw stone projectiles, burning charges, and other objects using a long arm with a 'spoon'. The working mechanism means you get a more interactive building experience and a playable siege engine, not just a static model.
COBI IMPERIUM ROMANUM Roman Onager Catapult: Set #20068
Which set fits you best?
Best for
- Display-focused collectors who want a ceremonial centerpiece
- Kids who enjoy interactive siege play with moving parts
Not for
- Builders seeking a large, complex set (both are quick builds)
- Anyone who dislikes static display models (avoid the Chariot if you want play features)
