TAMIYAThe Hornet Model

Great kit. I had one as a kid and it took me to memory lane to get this for my own kid.

This is a great re-release of a classic Tamiya buggy design. I like that my eight year old kids were able to build the exact same kit that I built when I was their age. Quality of the parts are as good or better than the original. Having kids learn on a kit buggy that is rear wheel drive is SUPER beneficial to their driving skills. Because they built it from a base tub kit, they understand how it works and how to fix it when things go wrong. Also taught them about gearing, the importance of lubrication, damping oil, how NOT to overtighten a set screw (had to do one fill and drill, but they understood after that...). The RTR 4x4 buggies are fine (they also have a Volcano), but do not teach much about torque and drift control, etc. This buggy makes you WORK when you drive it. Just making it go in a straight line is a challenge... 8-)Keep in mind that this kit does not come with ANY electronics except for the brushed 460 standard drive motor. But, again, as compared to the RTR kits, this allows you to talk with your kids about the importance of a high quality transmitter, sealed servo's, etc. The point of these kits it they are pretty inexpensive, with good fun factor and great to learn with and get the RC bug.

The Hornet is a good kit for kids or first timers. Easy to assemble, goes fast. But be aware, this particular package is advertised to include an Electronic Speed Control. But when it arrived, the box indicated it needed the ESC purchased separately. Fortunately, I found a nice inexpensive one on Amazon for just a little over $20, "GOUPRC 2S LiPo Waterproof Brushed ESC Electronic Speed Controller T-plug/XT60 Plugs for 1/10 RC Car RCBoat for use with 540/550 motors" (which also works with NiMH batteries).

There is nothing like assembling a Tamiya product. The quality you expect is there with additional upgrades I didn’t expect like stronger rear suspension brackets. Delivery was also perfect!

Tamiya is known for it's easy assembly and quality products. The Hornet is a classic for those who are into older RC cars, it's been around since the 80's. Great for a child or someone who is new to RC and wants a basic car to learn how everything works together in the RC cars.Be aware this is just for the car and motor. You will need:1 Steering Servo - this controls the direction in which the car turns.1 Electronic Speed Controller - this connected to the battery delivers power to car to make it run1 Radio and Receiver - This is the hand held remote that you use to control the car and the receiver is what receives the signal from the remote.1 or more Batteries -the power source for the car, depending on the type of plugs you use coming from the Electron Speed Control. Make sure the Electronic Speed Control can mate up to the battery properly and it can handle the power of the battery.If you're new to the hobby consult a local hobby shop to ensure you get the proper setup that is appropriate for the car.You'll also need some paint to paint the body as it's clear Lexan. ( wash the body with soap and water, let it dry and paint on the inside of the body to protect the paint from scratches )A classic buggy that is fun to drive and is enjoyable to build. If you aren't sure consult a local hobby shop and learn about different brands and what they offer to see what suits your needs.

The product itself is what I expected. However the box it's self had been opened and an advertised component was missing. I am now inventoring parts to see what else might not be there.

The reason this kit is cheaper is that it's the 58336 non esc version instead of the USA spec 58336a with speed control. They specifically show in the pic that it includes the esc making this very misleading and it adds an additional unplanned expense. Need to fix the listing!That said, it arrived without shrink wrap as well which is a bit concerning but all parts seem accounted for.

So much fun to put together. Funny to think how long I saved up in the 80's to get one of these and how hard it seemed to assemble at the time. 47 year old me grabbed a six pack and some basic tools and had the best few nights putting it together. Thankful these are still produced, wish I had known sooner! My son loves playing with it. For some reason, no matter how fancy the new ones get, with all the bells and whistles and whatever, this Hornet is so much more fun to drive. And yes, you can still gun it full throttle and then rapidly throw it in reverse and turn hard and it will do a 180 haha!