Hobbies And Interests
The Beginning
The first R/C racecars, built in the 1960s, were powered by .19 cubic-inch model airplane engines capable of pushing them to over 40 mph.
Nitro vs. Electric
Because of their light weight and high torque, electric cars are almost always faster than anything gas powered. Nitromethane fuel helps to even the odds, but gas cars are still generally slower.
Top Speed
The world record for fastest R/C car is currently held by the Team Associated electric-powered RC3 race car. The car's top speed is 134.4 miles per hour, and its electric motor puts out a little over 2 horsepower.
Drag Racing
R/C drag racers run on a 1/10-scale quarter mile dragstrip measuring 132 feet. The record for fastest time was set by an electric that did the deed in 1.32 seconds at 70 mph.
Nitro Acceleration
Some of the fastest ready-to-run nitro R/C cars on the planet are built by Megatech. They can accelerate to 60 mph in less than three seconds. Modified cars have been clocked at 60 mph in under two seconds.