With their increased size and power compared to smaller scales, 1/8 scale remote controlled cars have surged in popularity in recent years as they allow for a more exciting and realistic RC bashing and racing experience. But if you’re new to the hobby and unfamiliar with 1/8 scale, you may be wondering – just how big are these larger RC vehicles?
In this guide, we’ll define the typical dimensions of 1/8 scale RC car bodies, wheels, and other key components. You’ll learn how 1/8 size compares to more common 1/10 models and larger 1/5 and 1/4 scales. We’ll also look at variations between monster trucks, buggies, truggies, and across major RC brands. Whether you’re looking to get into 1/8 racing or just bash around your backyard, these detailed dimensions will help give you a better idea of what to expect with 1/8 scale radio controlled cars.
What is a 1/8 Scale RC Car?
A 1/8 scale radio controlled (RC) car is a model car that is 1/8 the size of a real full-size car. The 1/8 scale is a popular size category in RC modeling. These cars are larger than the smaller 1/10 scale models, but smaller than 1/5 scale. The 1/8 scale provides a good balance of size and performance for RC enthusiasts.
Popularity of 1/8 Scale RC Cars
In recent years, 1/8 scale RC cars have become extremely popular. Their increased size improves stability and allows for higher speeds compared to smaller scales. Additionally, their versatility enables them to be used for various RC activities – racing on tracks, high-speed runs, and bashing on rough terrain. Major developments in power systems and durability have also contributed to the popularity of 1/8 scale models. Many premier RC brands like Traxxas, Losi, and Team Associated offer competitive 1/8 racing buggies. This scale also includes high-performance truggies optimized for speed runs and monster trucks for extreme bashing. The 1/8 category provides an immersive driving experience appealing to hobbyists of all skill levels.
Dimensions of a 1/8 Scale RC Car
1. Body Length, Width and Height
A typical 1/8 scale RC car body measures around 15-17 inches (38-43 cm) in length. Racing buggy bodies are usually on the shorter side, while truggy and monster truck bodies can be longer. The width of 1/8 scale bodies is approximately 7-8 inches (18-20 cm) on average. Height ranges from 5-7 inches (13-18 cm) depending on the vehicle type, with trucks being taller than low-profile buggies. The wheelbase, which is the distance between the front and rear axles, spans around 11-13 inches (28-33 cm) on most 1/8 RC models.
2. Wheels and Tires
Wheels for 1/8 scale RC cars have a diameter of approximately 2.2-2.8 inches (55-70 mm). Many 1/8 scale buggy and truggy models utilize a 70mm wheel, while monster trucks may use a slightly larger 75-80mm wheel. Tire diameters range from 3.5-4.5 inches (90-115mm) based on the tire type and tread pattern. Stadium truck tires are generally around 100mm, while large monster truck tires can exceed 110mm in diameter.
3. Other Key Dimensions
In addition to the exterior features, some internal dimensions help define the 1/8 scale. Battery compartments typically fit large stick packs up to about 7.5 x 2.2 x 1.7 inches (190 x 57 x 42 mm). The wheelbase offers ample space for a long chassis, usually 12 inches (305 mm) or more. Suspension arms, shocks, and other components are proportioned appropriately for the larger 1/8 scale. Major drivetrain parts like motors and gearing are sized-up versions of those found in smaller scales.
List of the Best 1/8 Scale RC Cars
Comparison with Other Scale RC Cars
1. 1/10 Scale
The 1/10 scale is the most common size class for RC cars and trucks. Bodies of 1/10 scale models typically measure 11-13 inches (28-33 cm) long and 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) wide. Wheels are usually around 2 inches (50 mm) in diameter. With 1/10 scale being the entry level for RC enthusiasts, these smaller vehicles reach more moderate speeds of 20-40 mph. While 1/10 scale offers an economical starting point, the smaller size compromises stability and performance compared to 1/8 models.
2. 1/5 Scale
At the opposite end of the spectrum, 1/5 scale represents larger, more advanced RC vehicles. Full sized 1/5 scale bodies can stretch over 2 feet (60 cm) long and 1 foot (30 cm) wide. Massive 1/5 scale tires of 6 inches (15 cm) or more in diameter allow these vehicles to traverse rough terrain or race at blurring speeds over 80 mph. However, the sheer size and power of 1/5 scale models also makes them less practical and accessible for casual hobbyists.
3. 1/4 Scale
Straddling the middle ground, 1/4 scale provides a balance of size and manageability. The typical 1/4 scale body measures around 19 inches (48 cm) long by 9 inches (23 cm) wide. Tires are about 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. With greater stability than smaller scales, 1/4 RC cars can reach 50+ mph when modified while still being easier to transport than 1/5 scale. But 1/4 scale is currently a less populated segment, limiting choices for enthusiasts compared to the breadth of 1/8 and 1/10 offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions about 1/8 Scale RC Cars
1. How long is a 1/8 scale RC car?
The typical length of a 1/8 scale RC car body ranges from 15 to 17 inches (38 to 43 cm). Racing buggy bodies tend to be on the shorter side, around 15 inches, while monster trucks and truggies can be longer around 16-17 inches. The wheelbase, which is the distance between the front and rear axles, is approximately 11-13 inches (28-33 cm) for most 1/8 scale models.
2. How wide are 1/8 scale RC cars?
The width of 1/8 scale RC car bodies averages 7 to 8 inches (18 to 20 cm). Trucks tend to be at the wider end of the range, while buggies are narrower for aerodynamics. Track width, which refers to the width between the left and right tires, is about 7.5 to 8 inches (19 to 20 cm) for most 1/8 scale RC cars.
3. How big are the tires and wheels on 1/8 scale models?
Tires for 1/8 scale RC cars have diameters ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 inches (90 to 115 mm). Stadium truck tires are typically around 4 inches, while large monster truck tires can exceed 4.5 inches. Wheels are usually 2.2 to 2.8 inches (55 to 70 mm) in diameter, with many 1/8 scale buggies and truggies running 70 mm wheels. Monster trucks may use slightly larger 75-80 mm wheels.
4. What is the ground clearance of a 1/8 RC car?
Ground clearance measures the height of the chassis or underside of a 1/8 scale model from the ground. Racing buggies have low ground clearance around 1.5 to 2 inches for stability. Truggies and monster trucks have increased clearance of 2.5 to 4 inches to handle rough terrain. Adjustable ride height lets enthusiasts fine-tune clearance.
5. How much does a 1/8 scale RC car weigh?
Weight can range from 8 to 12 pounds ready-to-run. Racing buggies are lighter around 8 pounds for optimum acceleration and handling. Truggies and monster trucks typically weigh 10 pounds or more with their larger tires, wheels, shocks and heavier chassis. Aftermarket upgrades and heavier battery packs can add weight.
Final Thoughts
In summary, 1/8 scale strikes a nice balance of size, speed, and versatility in the radio controlled car world. With body lengths around 15-17 inches and widths of 7-8 inches, 1/8 models provide a happy medium between smaller 1/10 and intimidating 1/5 scales. Their ample size improves stability for bashing and gives room for powerful motors to reach thrilling speeds over 50 mph when modified. Yet 1/8 cars are still reasonably transportable for most hobbyists. While dimensions vary slightly across vehicle types and brands, the average 1/8 scale RC car measures bigger than its 1/10 counterpart but is still manageable for recreational racers and bashers. For those seeking a immersive RC experience beyond entry-level offerings, while not going overboard on size, 1/8 scale delivers an ideal package.
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