Tamiya RC Cars

Probably the biggest rc car company in Japan, Tamiya electric rc cars are popular worldwide. My first true hobby quality rc car was a Tamiya. Today I’ve lost count as to how many I have. I’m just addicted to buying them.

If you are a beginner, I highly recommend you start off with a Tamiya rc car. Here is a quick guide.

Tamiya TT01 (for beginners)

This is the entry level model of Tamiya aimed for beginners. I have one, it’s actually good for playing and bashing. Plus the various body kits (Mazdas, Nissans, Mitsubishis, BMWs etc) give you the looks you want.

Photo of Tamiya TT01 rc car.

Basic specs: friction shocks, shaft drive, gear diffs, plastic tub chassis, decent suspension, slightly heavier than other models.

Tamiya TA05 (best value, beginner to intermediate racers)

I find the TA05 to be the best value Tamiya rc touring car. Reason is good suspension design, good weight balance, oil shock absorbers, efficient belt drivetrain and very durable.

Tamiya TA05 rc car.

Even if you are a beginner, I would highly recommend you buy the TA05 over the TT01. Out of the box the TA05 has a race designed suspension geometry and chassis balance. Even if you hop up a TT01 to it’s fullest it will not beat the design of the TA05.

Tamiya TRF 416 (for serious racers)

To show how good Tamiya kits are, they are probably the only manufacturer to win 3 touring car world championships using their 414, 415 and 416 rc touring car kits. Tamiya is serious about racing and have their Tamiya Racing Factory  (TRF) group. If you see a Tamiya kit with the TRF branding, it is for serious racing.

Tamiya TRF 416 rc car.

Typical specs include graphite chassis, TRF oil filled shocks, efficient belt drive system, ball differentials, superior suspension design for fastest cornering speeds.

So I hope you like Tamiya rc cars as much as I do. Very popular in Asia, USA and Europe. They also have a yearly Tamiya World Championship race wherein regular folks like us can have a chance to become a World Champion.

Have fun!

Joel

Related Topics

Tamiya TA05 IFS