RC Car Scales and Sizes

RC Car Scales and Sizes

Remote control (RC) cars are a fun and exciting hobby that people of all ages can enjoy. However, those new to the world of RC cars commonly encounter one issue when determining which RC cars to purchase: how to determine the best size of an RC car for an enjoyable experience.

Seasoned RC racers often gravitate towards larger 1/5 scale RC cars due to their substantial dimensions, which make them ideal for a wide range of racing scenarios. However, for the majority of enthusiasts, whether their passion lies in racing or other pursuits, the 1/8 or 1/10 scale RC cars often prove to be the most versatile choice. These scales strike a harmonious balance between size and maneuverability, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of RC enthusiasts.

It's crucial to remember that RC cars, trucks, and buggies come in various dimensions, extending beyond just the scale. Therefore, it's vital to consider these measurements thoroughly to ensure you find the RC vehicle that best suits your desires and requirements.

Weight: This refers to the overall mass of the RC car.

Length: The length measurement extends from the front to the back of the car.

Width: It indicates how wide the vehicle is when viewed from the side.

Height: This measurement gauges the car's height from the ground to its highest point.

Size Perspective

Keep in mind that every variety of RC car comes with its unique set of dimensions. For example, a 1:10 scale RC buggy will feature more compact measurements in contrast to a 1:10 scale monster truck. As a result, the range of scale sizes can vary depending on the particular type of RC car you decide to go for.

1/5 Scale

1:5 scale: This is one of the largest scales for RC cars and offers maximum speed, performance, and durability. Cars on this scale can measure up to 30 inches in length and are built for extreme off-road conditions. The Traxxas 1:5 Xmaxx is a popular example of this scale.

A 1/5 scale RC car typically has the following dimensions:

Weight: Ranging from 60 to 80 pounds

Length: Measuring between 30 to 40 inches

Width: Extending from 28 to 32 inches

Height: Scaling anywhere between 16 to 24 inches

1:8 scale

This is a larger scale and is typically used for off-road racing and bashing. Cars in this scale are 17.5 – 21.6 inches in length and are designed to handle rough terrain and high speeds.

A 1/8 scale RC car typically has the following dimensions:

Weight: Ranging from 2.45 to 4.54 kilograms (approximately 5.4 to 20 pounds)

Length: Measuring between 470 to 595 millimeters (about 18.5 to 23.43 inches)

Width: Extending from 265 to 422 millimeters (approximately 10.4 to 16.6 inches)

Height: Scaling anywhere between 100 to 250 millimeters (roughly 3.9 to 9.8 inches)

1:10 Scale

This scale is a popular choice for replica RC cars, offering a good balance between size and detail. Cars in this scale typically measure between 17 and 22 inches in length, providing a good size for displaying the high level of accuracy and detail of the replica.

A 1/10 scale RC car typically has the following dimensions:

Weight: Ranging from 3.2 to 11.2 pounds

Length: Measuring between 17.5 to 21.6 inches

Width: Extending from 7.8 to 14.4 inches

Height: Scaling anywhere between 4.2 to 9.1 inches

1:12 Scale

This scale is another popular choice for replica RC cars, offering a smaller size that’s still big enough to show off the intricate details. Cars in this scale typically measure between 14 and 16 inches in length, making them easy to handle and display.

A 1/12 scale RC car typically has the following dimensions:

Weight: Ranging from 5.4 to 10 pounds

Length: Measuring between 14 to 16 inches (approximately 36 to 38 cm)

Width: Extending from 7 to 7.3 inches (around 178 to 185 mm)

Height: Scaling anywhere between 4 to 4.92 inches (roughly 102 to 125 mm)

 1/16 scale

RC cars come in a range of dimensions, which can vary based on the specific model and manufacturer. As a general guideline, the dimensions for a 1/16 scale RC car may fall within the following ranges:

A 1/16 scale RC car typically has the following dimensions:

Weight: Typically between 2.45 to 4.54 kg (approximately 2.8 to 3.3 pounds)

Length: Measuring around 10 to 14 inches (approximately 272 to 356 mm)

Width: Extending from 3.5 to 6.5 inches

Height: Ranging from 2.5 to 3.9 inches

1/24 scale

RC cars are notably small, and their dimensions reflect their compact size. Typically, a 1/24 scale RC car will have measurements such as:

A 1/24 scale RC car typically has the following dimensions:

Weight: Approximately 1 to 1.98 pounds

Length: Ranging from 3 to 7 inches

Width: Around 3.46 inches

Height: Approximately 4.65 inches

How to Choose the Right Size RC Car suits you

Choosing the right RC car is a big decision for beginners looking to have a fun and stress-free experience. While you might know which model you’d prefer, there are specific factors to consider before selecting the correct size. Consider the following before making a final purchase of an RC car:

Budget. Typically, the bigger the car, the more expensive the price tag. If you’re buying on a tight budget, consider smaller models like a 1:24 scale RC car.

Environment. Large models aren’t always best for indoor racing or racing in narrow outdoor areas. Additionally, if you want to race outdoors on rugged terrains, a bigger model is probably best and will have the ability to avoid damage from harsh environments.

Skill level. Not all RC cars are easy to operate, and if you’re a complete newcomer, you should start with a dependable model like the 1:10. Smaller models are usually faster. Because they are so light, they can be challenging to control. Make sure you’re comfortable operating the size of an RC car before making a purchase.

Thanks for having a look to Rc car scales and sizes guides. We hope that you find something that excites you! If you have any questions please contact us! Have a nice visit at our shop!

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