What are The Different Types of RC Cars

By Joe Rich

What are The Different Types of RC Cars

There are about 4 different types of RC car to choose from. To help you narrow down your choices, we have created a list of the most popular types of RC cars and what each type offers.

There are some hobbies that begin in adolescence and continue well into adulthood.

One of the most popular hobbies out there is collecting, building, and racing RC cars.

This is because there are so many different makes, models, and styles of RC cars that one could spend years upon years just learning about them, let alone collecting them.

Perhaps one of the best things about RC cars is that they offer unmatched customization.

With most RC nitro cars, you can find makes and models that are essentially the small version of the real cars that you have come to know and love.

Being able to buy those cars in RC form allows people to take them apart, customize them, and create their own unique vision for the car.

Best of all, they can do it for a fraction of the very expensive cost of buying the full-sized things.

There is a wide array of RC car types out there and each certainly has its own set of pros and cons in addition to individual driving styles.

Some drivers prefer high-speed races that take place on mostly flat roads while others prefer to drive their RC cars off-road and over rocks.

Before making the leap into choosing an RC car, which can be a fairly big purchase, it can be helpful to know about the main types out there.

Since they’re customizable and upgradable, you can certainly make your changes but the main differences in RC car type remain.

Since RC cars come in a wide array of sizes and shapes, that means that they can come in different styles as well.

Some are built for speed, some for power, while others are more tailored to handle stunt jumps and tricks.

We have a article about the top 25 hobby RC cars you can buy click here to read

How many types of RC cars are there?

There are primarily four types of RC cars:

1. Off-Road Buggies: These are versatile and can handle a variety of terrains. They have a high ground clearance which makes them ideal for off-road racing.
   
2. Monster Trucks: These are larger RC cars that are designed to overcome obstacles and rough terrains. They have large tires, high ground clearance, and powerful motors.
   
3. On-Road Cars: These are designed for speed and are best used on smooth surfaces like concrete or asphalt. They have lower ground clearance compared to off-road models and are usually more streamlined.
   
4. Crawlers: These are designed for climbing steep and rocky surfaces. They have high-torque engines and are generally slower than other types.
   

Each of these types can be further divided into nitro, gas, or electric-powered models, each with their own unique characteristics and requirements. Nitro and gas models are typically faster and more powerful, but they require more maintenance. Electric models are easier to use and maintain, making them a popular choice for beginners.

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Off road Buggies

There are subsections of this type of RC car as well.

Buggies are some of the most common as they are built specifically for off-road racing.

This is because they were based on the full-scale equivalents that are used commonly in desert racing.

Buggies are essentially a hybrid of a car and a truck: that is, they provide the speed of off-road racers with the look of a truck.

 There are also built-in roll cages, meaning fewer stoppages in order to flip your car back over when it takes a spill.

Of course, you can section these off even further by considering two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, which can be distinguished by the wheel size if you know what you are looking for.

Buggies can also hit higher speeds while still being able to pull off jumps, making them the most versatile of the RC cars out there.

The ability to drive on pavement or off-road depends on the suspension as well as the tires.

Other than that, RC cars are still fairly adaptable and can fit into most situations, making them the most common variation of car out there.

Buggies are a favourite of off-road racers because of their ability to maintain high speeds while traversing even the roughest of terrains.

If you are familiar with RC racing off-road circuits, there is little doubt that you have seen a good deal of buggies in your time.

They are easily the most versatile of vehicle types out there.

We have a article about Arrma RC cars click here to read.

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Short Course Trucks

One of the newer classes of racing in the RC car world, short course trucks are becoming more and more popular among RC car enthusiasts.

This is because it is universally seen to be one of the more fun and competitive classes of RC racing that there is.

Short course trucks also happen to be among the most realistic scales of off-road racing trucks.

If you have always dreamt of driving one of those big off-road racing trucks, you can get as close as possible to that experience through a short course truck.

Not only do they look just the same as the CORR 900 horsepower short course trucks that they are modelled after, they also handle like them too.

It brings short course truck racing down to a more affordable size, allowing hobbyists everywhere to get involved on a scale unlike ever before.

They also tend to be some of the most durable RC cars on the market as they can absorb contact from other vehicles far better than their traditional counterparts.

This means that there is less of a need to avoid contact when racing other vehicles.

 Being able to initiate contact in short course tracks only ups the tension and competition, making the race more exciting, interesting, and realistic to those partaking. 

And this is all without having to worry about replacing the vehicle every time that it comes near another car on the track.

In the same vein, short course trucks make for great bashing or racing vehicles.

Since their durability is great and they come with lots of hop-up options, they make for excellent competitive-style vehicles.

Plus, their tires tend to be much larger than truggies and buggies, meaning that they hold up better on even the roughest of terrains and can race on the larger tracks.

Even with all of these perks, short course trucks tend to be one of the most affordable classes of RC car out there.

 Getting a basic short course truck will run you around $200 to start and can go up based on customizations.

Lastly, short course trucks come in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive.

With the growing popularity of short course trucks, it just means that more and more manufacturers are joining in when it comes to their production.

This means that you can expect to see more models and options than ever before in the near future.

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Monster Trucks

While speed certainly seems to be the name of the game for many of these different kinds of RC cars, there is nothing that beats the feeling of pure muscle.

 That is how having an RC monster truck feels: lots and lots of muscle.

These won’t win you many races but they aren’t really meant to do that. RC monster trucks can get a surprising amount of speed going but their main goal is to traverse off-road courses and the roughest of terrains.

Your typical RC monster truck will be able to comfortably go over top of some rocks, steps, and even other RC cars in the ultimate show of dominance.

And you can even get models that look just the same as the huge, professional monster trucks that run the circuit every year.

With a surprising amount of speed and handling, RC monster trucks are some of the more fun variations out there and meant for those who aren’t necessarily looking to race them competitively.

They are perfect for taking out on a rough terrain.

This way, you can climb over rocks and debris, crush a few cans, and generally rule the road.

For those hobbyists who don’t have a desire to get into the competitive RC racing circuit, the monster truck provides a huge amount of fun for a relatively affordable price.

Skip the stressful races where your car could get wrecked and lead to repairs and replacements when you can get a durable monster truck and lay waste to anything in the area that you see fit to run over.

The other choices on the market are probably better for more competitive RC car racers but the truck will likely bring you the most amount of fun thanks to its highly durable construction.

To view the Redcat Racing Blackout XTE on the Redcat website click here.

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Rock Crawlers

Much the same as the RC monster truck, the rock crawler goes against the grain in that it is not meant for speed.

The latter seems to be the name of the game when it comes to RC cars, but the rock crawler comes at you with power and a bit of grace.

Rock crawlers are just as the name implies: they are meant to climb rocks and other rough terrain that normal RC cars can’t deal with.

Over the years, rock crawling has expanded to include other things than traversing rock piles.

Now it can include rock racers, technical rock crawlers, and trail rigs.

More technical rock crawling has a focus on getting your RC rock crawler over what seem to be impossible obstacles.

And, again, they are impossible to compare to traditional RC cars.

There can be a litany of aspects to rock racing but the general idea is that it combines the elements of ridiculously huge obstacles with the speed of off-road mixed with a little bit of mud and a whole lot of noise.

Trail rigs, meanwhile, are more of the slow and steady climber.

They are not meant to be competitive; instead, they are more about traversing truly rough terrain and cruising around with friends.

The cool thing about trial rigs is that they can be customized with lots of scale details and can be driven in places that would probably ruin traditional RC cars.

One thing to keep in mind about rock crawlers is that they tend to take a bit more maintenance than some of the other RC cars in order to keep them running smoothly.

So if RC rock crawlers are more your speed, just know that you will have to set aside a good amount of time to keep them running optimally.

To view the Redcat Racing Everest on the Redcat Racing webste click here.

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What is a Drift RC car

There is another class of RC car that is drift.

RC drift cars are a type of remote-controlled car specifically designed to mimic the real-world drifting action of full-sized vehicles. They are popular in the car enthusiast community due to their manoeuvrability, high-speed cornering, and the skill required to control them.

How Do They Differ From Regular RC Cars?

The primary difference between regular RC cars and RC drift cars lies in their wheel design and handling characteristics. Regular RC cars are designed for straight-line speed or off-road adventures, whereas RC drift cars are equipped with special low-grip tires to allow for controlled oversteer and sideways sliding – the essence of drifting.

Unique Features of RC Drift Cars

• Low-Grip Tires: These are typically made from ABS plastic or other hard materials to minimize traction and facilitate sliding.
• Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Most real drift cars are RWD and it’s the same for RC drift cars. This helps in achieving the drifting effect.
• Powerful Motors: To initiate and maintain a drift, these cars often have powerful motors.
• High Steering Angle: RC drift cars have a larger steering angle to help perform drifts.

Popularity Among Car Enthusiasts

RC drift cars are popular because they offer a realistic and scaled-down experience of real-world drifting. They’re also used in competitive racing, where drivers are judged based on their skill in controlling the car, rather than the speed at which they complete the course.

Choosing the Right RC Drift Car

When choosing an RC drift car, consider the following:

• Skill Level: Beginners might want to start with a four-wheel drive (4WD) model as they’re easier to control. As you gain experience, transition to a RWD model for a more realistic drifting experience.
• Quality: Look for a model with a solid build quality to withstand the impacts that come with learning to drift.
• Upgradeability: As you progress, you might want to upgrade parts such as tires, motors, or batteries. Ensure your chosen model allows for this.

Essential Parts for Drifting

• Tires: As mentioned, low-grip tires are essential. Some enthusiasts even use electrical tape around their tires to reduce grip.
• Motor: A powerful motor will help keep your car drifting.
• Differential: A locked differential (where the two wheels spin at the same speed) can help maintain drifts. Some RC drift cars come with this feature, but it’s also possible to modify the differential yourself.

Remember, RC drifting requires practice. Start slow, learn how your car responds, and gradually try more advanced techniques. Happy drifting!

To view the Redcat Racing EPX drift car on the Redcat Racing website click here.

Understanding RC Builds

When you have figured out the type of car that you want to get invested in, there is the matter of what kind of build you want to get.

RC cars come with pre-built options and customizable, self-build options.

It is recommended that you start out with pre-built options if you are new to the hobby.

The less options, the better until you have developed an understanding of controlling the vehicle optimally.

Pre-built cars are generally known as “ready to run” cars.

This is because they may not need anything other than some rechargeable batteries that the transmitter requires.

Pre-built vehicles are definitely capable of being customized and upgraded if you should feel more comfortable trying these things later on.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with starting out with a pre-built option.

Not everyone comes into a hobby with all of the knowledge in the world and a pre-built kit can allow you to get the kind of specifications that you want out of an RC car without having to run the risk of screwing something up along the way.

There are obviously huge benefits to going with a customizable option, though.

If you have some knowledge of the kits and what they can offer your car, you can tailor it to your exact specifications.

Maybe you like a little more speed while sacrificing some handling or vice versa.

Whatever your preferences, you can get just that when you go with the customizable option.

We have a article about the best RTR RC cars you can buy click here to read.

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What are RC car Kits

There are also kits out there that can be added later and are clearly labelled for assembly so even the earliest of beginners can take on an RC kit with confidence.

Going with an RC kit over a pre-built also offers the advantage of teaching you as you go. 

 If you wanted to learn more about RC cars but weren’t sure where to start, getting down and dirty on your own RC car is the best way to go.

Best of all, these kits are clearly labeled for assembly so that they are easy to use for even beginners.

Kits can also require various degrees of assembly.

This means that beginners can jump into kits without feeling overwhelmed by some of the more complex kits.

 That allows for learning at your own pace without feeling vastly overwhelmed.

The best kits are the ones that contain the necessary tools.

 Not only that, they will have pre-made designs so that you don’t have to spend the time and money to get a paint job on your car.

Of course, you can go with a custom paint job but just remember that everything has a cost that comes with it.

If you are working on your first RC car, take the time to build it properly.

 For beginners, you will get the kind of learning experience that is invaluable when it comes to RC cars, better preparing you to work with them more going forward.

For your first car, be thorough and do not be afraid to fix things when they break down.

Maintenance will save you money in the long run and will teach you invaluable lessons when it comes to repairing, maintaining, and customizing your vehicle either on that model or for future models.

That experience and education are valuable enough tools in their own right and will have you feeling a greater appreciation for RC cars than ever before.

We have an article Are Tamiya RC car kits any good click here to read.

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What brand is best for RC cars?

When looking for a quality RC car, there are several key features and specifications to consider. These include:

1. Design: You want an RC car that is well-built and sturdy. It should be able to withstand bumps and crashes without easily breaking.
   
2. Battery Life: A longer battery life means more playtime. Look for RC cars with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries as they tend to last longer.
   
3. Speed: The speed of the RC car depends on your preference. If you plan to race your RC car, then a faster model would be ideal.
   
4. Durability: The car should be able to withstand rough handling and various terrains.
   

Traxxas Traxxas is a renowned brand known for its high-speed RC cars. Most of their models are capable of reaching speeds over 60 mph. They also offer excellent durability and longer battery life. However, their models can be pricey, especially for beginners.

We have a article about Traxxas RC cars click here to read.

Redcat Racing Redcat Racing offers a variety of RC cars from off-road buggies to on-road cars. They are known for their affordability and durability. Some users have noted issues with customer service and replacement parts.

We have a article about Redcat Racing click here to read.

HPI Racing HPI Racing is known for their detailed designs and high-quality materials. They offer a wide range of models from beginner to professional level. Their RC cars are durable and reliable. However, they can be on the expensive side.

We have a article abut HPI click here to read.

Tamiya Tamiya is a Japanese brand known for their detailed and realistic RC car models. They offer a wide range of models suitable for both beginners and experienced users. Some people have found that assembly can be complex as many of their models come as kits.

We have a article about Tamiya click here to read.

The choice of brand depends on your budget and specific needs. If you’re a beginner, Redcat Racing offers affordable models that are durable and easy to use. For speed and performance, Traxxas is a great option. If realism and detail are important to you, then Tamiya or HPI Racing would be ideal.

We have a article about the best RC car makers click here to read.

What are Nitro Powered RC car

There are also variations to the aforementioned vehicles when it comes to their nitro-fuelled counterparts.

Nitro-fuelled cars may have some different components to them but the biggest factor here is that the speeds are vastly improved, capable of hitting 80 mph depending on the type of car and modifications that you implement.

The key difference between electric RC cars and their nitro counterparts, beside the obvious fact that the latter has fuel and the former does not, is that nitro-powered cars tend to be a lot louder and will require a lot more maintenance.

We have a article about Nitro Vs gas which is best click here to view.

The latter is because the car is burning actual fuel versus the electric RC cars.

When this is the case, the engine in the RC nitro car is far more susceptible to getting debris and dirt in it, which can seriously hinder its performance capabilities.

Keeping it clean and providing regular maintenance is of the utmost importance for keeping your nitro car as healthy and efficient as possible.

Nitro-powered cars tend to go a little faster than the electric version but fuelling the car costs money and, depending on how much you race, it could cost quite a bit over time.

Granted, you will need to purchase extra batteries if you plan on partaking in extra-long sessions so there are costs on both sides of the spectrum.

We have a article about the best RTR nitro RC cars click here to read.

For beginners, the key is to limit the amount of modifications and differences.

When just starting out with RC cars, the focus should be on learning how to efficiently control the RC car. It is important to practice and become familiar with controlling the direction, speed, acceleration, braking, and turning of the RC car. This will allow you to better understand how these elements work together and help you master driving your RC car.

Additionally, understanding how your RC car works mechanically can be beneficial in helping you diagnose potential issues and maintain its performance over time. Therefore, it is important to familiarize yourself with the different parts of an RC car and how they function. This knowledge can also help you make informed decisions when selecting upgrades for your RC car. With the right knowledge and practice, you will be able to unlock the full potential of your RC car and take your driving skills to the next level!

Lastly, don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the amazing world of RC Cars! There are many different types of RC cars available and each one has its own unique qualities. From off-road buggies and drift cars to on-road touring cars, the possibilities in terms of what you can do with your RC car are endless. Take some time to explore all the exciting options out there and find the one that best suits your needs and interests. No matter which type of RC car you choose, you’re sure to have a thrilling experience! Good luck and happy driving!