How to Buy a Nitro RC Vehicle

Think about where you plan on racing the vehicle, or running it if you don't want to race. An on-road car is perfect for hobbyists, while racers will look for off-road vehicles that they can take on local dirt tracks.

Pick up a copy of RC Car Action from your local hobby store or bookstore (see Resources below for the online version link). This magazine is the ultimate resource for RC enthusiasts and contains all the information you'll need to decide on the type of vehicle to buy.

Choose your size. RC cars and trucks are available in a variety of sizes from small mini racers to larger monster trucks. If you plan on racing the car, go for a 1/8, 1/10 or 1/15 scale, because those are the sizes most often raced.

Visit your local hobby store and take a look at the nitro RC vehicles in stock. While you're there, also make sure to ask for the ordering catalog so you can see everything you can get. Stores might not advertise all of the cars, but they can almost always order more than they have on the floor.

Ask other RC hobbyists and enthusiasts what they think about their car or truck and see if someone will let you run theirs. The best way to decide what you like and don't like is to get your hands on it.

Make a choice between the truck, car and dune buggy. All three have their pros and cons, but racers tends to pick the truck or car. Most dune buggies are for playing, not racing.

Buy a nitro vehicle that you like no matter what others think. This is your vehicle and you're the one running it, not a friend or family member.