The RC world has expanded in entire world over the past few years. There are RC hobbyists everywhere. And RC cars are a big part of that world.
While buying an RC car, the foggy and confusing reviews can leave you puzzled. Especially if you are a beginner, the struggle is real.
This is why we get your search for the best tamiya RC cars.
But, don’t you worry as I have got you covered. For your better understanding, I have picked the five best tamiya RC cars. Also, reviewed them in detail.
Here, I have added every detail possible. Also, I looked into the motor type and wheels for your ease.
So, let’s get on with it, shall we?
Product Comparison Table: 5 Outstanding Picks Not to Miss!
| Name of Product | Motor | Types |
| TAMIYA 1/10 Grasshopper 2WD Buggy Kit | 380 type | 2WD |
| TAMIYA Subaru Impreza MC 99 | 540 cc | 4WD |
| TAMIYA America Subaru WRX STI TT-02 Kit | 540 type | 4WD |
| Tamiya 58618 RC Monster Beetle | 540 type | 2WD |
| Tamiya RC NSU TT Jagermeister M-05 Kit | 540 type | FWD |
TAMIYA Grasshopper 2WD Buggy Kit
Starting with the first item on the list, I have the TAMIYA Grasshopper 2WD Buggy Kit. It is a classic RC kit with great features.
The RC car weighs 830 grams, which is pretty lightweight. The Grasshopper is easy to assemble. It also has a hassle-free control system. This is why it became popular right away as the ideal entry-level R/C kit.
Here, you can see that the Grasshopper is an entry-level car. This can easily keep pace with the owner’s driving experience. So, anyone can easily use it.
Besides, it is also compatible with a wide range of additional parts. For example, a 540 motor and ball bearings. The 540 motors work great for 1/10 RC vehicles.
Also, the ball bearings help move more smoothly by reducing friction while they are in motion.
This engaging 2WD buggy is a delight on both on- and off-road tracks. The Grasshopper is sure to satisfy you on your first drive.
We all know that a 2WD car has more speed and control than a 4WD car. The grasshopper has more speed and control than the other items on our list. Also, it is affordable for anyone.
On the other hand, it uses a 380-type motor. It means that the motor can heat up pretty quickly after a few runs. Whereas, a 540-type motor will run cooler and more efficiently. It will produce more torque, which makes the RC vehicle a strong one.
So, you can understand by now that this RC car will score lower in efficiency. It will also score lower in torque than the other items on the list.
The Grasshopper is unique due to its ideal balance of easy assembly and durable finish. The sturdy frame can withstand any form of severe operation. It is made by screwing a tough plastic body to a bathtub resin monocoque chassis.
In addition, it has coil spring dampers with an independent swing axle at the front. It also has a rigid axle rear suspension. These make it simple to handle off-road tracks.
A unique feature of the vehicle is that it has a sealed diff-loaded gearbox. This allows for smooth cornering and driving by keeping dirt and stones out.
However, you have to buy the receiver, transmitter, battery, and servo separately. These do not come with the RC car. But it comes with an ESC.
Here are 3-piece assembly-type wheels with paddle-style rear tires and grooved front tires combined. It offers outstanding traction on dirt courses. The amazing off-road R/C car is finished off with a half-body driver figure.
Lastly, the suitable age range is for adults.
Pros
- Sealed rear gearbox for safeguarding gear differential.
- It comes with an ESC and 380-type motor.
- The RC car is affordable.
- Great for on-road and off-road drives.
- Super speed and more control.
Cons
- It could heat up pretty soon.
- Battery, charger, transmitter, and servo do not come with it.
TAMIYA Subaru Impreza MC 99
For the second RC car of the day, I have the Tamiya Subaru Impreza MC 99. This is another first-rate RC vehicle for you.
This is the entry-level 4WD platform from Tamiya. It offers a simple design, balanced performance, and excellent aftermarket Hop-Up Option capability. These provide new kit builders with a convenient entrance into the world of on-road running.
Here, it contains a lot of qualities that make it simple for a beginner to assemble. It performs nicely because new electronics now on the market have improved cornering and overall speed.
In addition to being a starting point, the potential of the kit can be maximised. RC enthusiasts can do this by modifying it with a variety of the available Hop-Up Options.
Resulting in a boost in speed and overall performance.
Furthermore, the shaft-driven 4WD is incredibly adaptable and simple to maintain. It is low resistant. 4WD cars are great for beginners as they offer smooth and hassle-free cornering.
Also, they are compatible with any terrain. You can easily drive or race them on any surface without worry. The 4WD also performs well in confined places. All due to the fact that it cannot slide off sharp corners.
So, this car is safer than the previous car on the list. However, it is pretty expensive.
The equipment can be tuned and customised using a broad variety of alternative parts. You have to buy a receiver, steering servo, battery pack, and charger separately.
Here, the model includes an electronic speed controller, a powerful 540cc electric motor, and independent suspension. The electric motor runs cool and is more efficient than the earlier car. It also offers more gearing options for your comfort.
Lastly, the suitable age range is 14 years and above.
Pros
- Compatible with any terrain.
- The RC car is easy to maintain.
- It ensures security.
- Provides great speed and stability.
- Offers hassle-free cornering.
Cons
- The 4WD may break down because of its components.
- It does not include the remote control, battery, or charger.
TAMIYA America Subaru WRX STI TT-02 Kit
The third item on the list is the Tamiya America Subaru WRX STI TT-02 Kit. This outstanding car will give you an excellent performance that will blow your mind.
It is made of a polycarbonate body that effortlessly catches the car’s complicated lines. That includes the sharp front fenders, diffuser-shaped rear end, air intake, and vents on the hood.
Furthermore, separate components are used to show the side mirrors and the rear wing.
Here, the shaft-driven 4WD uses a lengthwise design for outstanding stability. That is done by attaching the battery on the left and the motor on the right.
It also has similar left and right suspension arms and beams for simple construction. Adding to that, the gearboxes are very easy to maintain.
This is a very versatile chassis with two alternative wheelbases, ground clearance settings, and tread configurations. Also with a range of ten conceivable gear ratios.
Besides, with brake cone wheel hubs and trendy front bumper supports, it doesn’t lack in style. Slick tires are combined with mesh wheels in a gunmetal tone for a sporty appearance.
Furthermore, it has a 540-type brushed motor. It is an all-rounder motor. Meaning, that it runs safer and cooler than the first item. It is also very efficient and has more torque than the first item. And we all know that more torque means more speed.
On the other hand, the RC car has 4WD. Meaning that you can use it on any type of terrain. It will work great on any road surface. It is also the most expensive RC car on our list. You can easily drive it on the road and off-road.
It offers you ease while riding. The race version’s aerodynamically enhanced shape is faithfully reproduced in lightweight, strong polycarbonate. Also, it is very durable and can withstand rough usage.
You can simply tune your car with the available options given here. Additionally, it includes an ESC. However, it does not include a battery, radio control, or charger.
Lastly, the user age range is 14 years and above.
Pros
- It is highly adaptable.
- User-friendly and durable.
- Easy to maintain.
- Compatible with any road surface.
- It runs safe and cool.
- This offers more speed with increased torque.
Cons
- You have to purchase the battery, radio control and charger separately.
- Might face issues with assembly bumper screws.
Tamiya 58618 RC Monster Beetle
The fourth item of the day is the Tamiya 58618 RC Monster Beetle. This off-road car aged like a fine wine and made a powerful comeback.
The Tamiya RC Monster Beetle does not compromise on quality and style. This radio-controlled model is equipped with the same stylised rendition of the iconic Volkswagen Beetle body.
The injection-molded plastic body faithfully matches the traditional Tamiya Monster Beetle design. That too, with a driver body. It is also easy to assemble.
In addition, the RC car has a 540-type motor. It helps in minimising heat and runs cooler. Also, it is an efficient motor, which allows more gear options.
On the other hand, the RC car has 2WD. We know that a 2WD car is way faster than a 4WD car. Meaning, that this RC car has more speed than the previous one. Also, it will not stress you while racing.
The RC car is more affordable than the earlier one.
The original model’s sturdy ABS space-frame chassis has not changed. The CVA oil dampers function in combination with the chassis’ double-wishbone front and rear suspension setups.
The rear universal drive shafts include rubber boots to keep out dust and efficiently transfer power. The R/C equipment is shielded by a sizable dust cover. This is a unique feature that I found here only.
The amazing 130mm diameter lug/pin spike tread tyres offer excellent off-road performance. Additionally, the wheels have one-piece gold-effect tires.
It is also built on an all-action 2WD platform with large tires. This makes it suited for pretty rough off-road adventures.
However, the RC car does not include an ESC, servo, battery, charger, or radio system. You have to purchase them separately.
Lastly, the user age range is 16 and above.
Pros
- Stylish design.
- Increased speed and overall performance.
- It is affordable.
- Easy to assemble.
- Includes a dust cover.
- Great for off-road surfaces.
Cons
- It does not include a radio system, battery, charger, ESC or servo.
- The plastic body can break in a crash.
Tamiya RC NSU TT Jagermeister Kit
Now, it is time to discover the last item of the day. It is the Tamiya RC NSU TT Jagermeister Kit.
Here, the chassis framework is simple to put together. Also, it offers flexible and responsive front-wheel drive handling qualities. It also supports the carefully produced polycarbonate body shell.
Besides, the RC car is an easy-to-build FWD vehicle. This can be customized with a variety of after-market items as your skill level increases.
The FWD allows you to push hard while making fewer errors thanks to its incredible stability. Additionally, the car has incredible bump handling and is less responsive to changing track conditions.
The RC car offers more stability than the previous one.
Moreover, with the weight distribution and big front tires, there is always plenty of steering available.
On the other hand, it has a 540-type motor. Meaning, that it runs cooler and more efficiently. Also, it is pricier than the previous item on the list.
The lightweight, compact semi-monocoque frame provides a low gravity centre and optimal weight distribution. This helps in balancing the car while driving.
The RC car provides excellent stability during high-speed cornering. That too, with 4-wheel adjustable dual wishbone suspension and a 3-piece steer linkage.
However, it does not include a transmitter, servo, battery, or charger. You have to buy them separately. It provides an ESC.
Lastly, the user age range is 16 years and above.
Pros
- Easy to assemble.
- Offers great stability during high-speed cornering.
- Runs cool and efficient.
- It is balanced.
- Offers incredible bump handling.
Cons
- It does not include a transmitter, servo, battery or charger.
Buying Guide
We have informed you of all there is to know about RC cars. You may still not recognise what features to look for in the RC car, though.
Because of this, I am here to help you choose the best RC car for your needs. Here are some things to consider before buying.
What Size of Motor to Choose?
The most popular motor size for RC cars is frequently referred to as “540.” These are frequently used in lighter 1/10 cars. Though heavier 1/10 and 1/8 scale cars utilize larger “550” sized engines. Now, “4-pole” motors are frequently used in brushless motors of this size.
2WD vs 4WD: Which One is Better?
It basically depends on your preference. If you’re seeking a budget vehicle for smooth on-track racing; go for 2WD.
In the same way, if you want a multi-terrain car with more security; go for 4WD.
Both cars will fulfill your needs in their own way.
What Battery to Choose for RC Car?
You can go for any battery. However, the ideal batteries for a remote-control car are LiPo batteries. They are the same size as NiMH batteries.
But have a higher capacity and charge more quickly. Also, NiMH batteries are bulkier and heavier.
FAQs
How Long Do You Charge an RC Car Battery?
The charging time depends on the size of the battery and the wattage of the charger. A
3 amp charger will take a 3000 mah battery around an hour to fully charge. Whereas a 6 amp charger will take about a half hour. Keep in mind that you should never leave the charging battery unattended.
What is the Range of the Batteries?
A range of 50 to 50 meters can be expected from less expensive devices. You can design your cars to have the longest range possible. But it’s crucial to maintain, control and avoid crashing because you can’t see your car. Your range may be limited if a building or other structure blocks your signal.
What Kind of Batteries Do Cars Need?
Only AAA or AA batteries may be used for some vehicles. For each remote-controlled car, a particular battery is specified. Rechargeable batteries are typically included with remote-control cars. Although these cars don’t need to be charged, their batteries will still need to be changed regularly.
Wrapping It Up
Finally, we have now reached the conclusion of the discussion. I’ve tried my best to provide a thorough review of the best tamiya rc cars here.
I hope that this conversation has cleared up your concerns regarding the RC cars. We wish you find the best Rc car in your search!
All the best!