Imagine the roar of a powerful engine, the dust kicking up as a massive machine flies through the air. That’s the thrilling world of 1/5 scale RC cars! These aren’t your average toy cars; they’re giant, remote-controlled beasts that bring backyard adventures to a whole new level. But if you’re new to this exciting hobby, picking the perfect 1/5 scale RC can feel overwhelming. So many brands, so many features – where do you even begin?
Many beginners find themselves stuck, unsure if they should go for electric power or a gas engine, or which features will give them the most fun. This confusion can lead to buying the wrong car and feeling disappointed. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate this awesome hobby. By the end of this post, you’ll understand what makes 1/5 scale RCs so special and how to choose one that’s just right for you.
Get ready to discover the incredible power and excitement of 1/5 scale RC vehicles. We’ll break down the key things you need to know to make a smart choice and get you out there tearing up the terrain in no time!
Our Top 5 1/5 Scale Rc Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 1/5 Scale Rc Detailed Reviews
1. ARRMA RC Truck KRATON 4X4 8S BLX 1/5 Speed Monster Truck Black
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready for some serious fun with the ARRMA RC Truck KRATON 4X4 8S BLX 1/5 Speed Monster Truck! This is the biggest and baddest ARRMA truck you can get, built for extreme bashing and speed. It’s already put together, so you can start driving it right away. This truck is made to handle tough jumps and rough terrain, giving you an amazing driving experience.
What We Like:
- It’s the ultimate 1/5 scale ready-to-run Speed Monster Truck.
- It has super strong laser-etched EXtreme Bash 7075-T6 aluminum parts.
- It’s designed for tough bashing with better strength and control.
- It comes with a powerful 8S LiPo capable Spektrum brushless motor for awesome speed.
- It includes a Spektrum DX3 3-channel 2.4GHz DSMR radio system for easy control.
What Could Be Improved:
- Batteries and a charger are not included, so you’ll need to buy those separately.
- Being a large 1/5 scale truck, it requires more space to operate and store.
This ARRMA KRATON 4X4 8S BLX is an incredible machine for anyone who loves RC trucks and wants the ultimate bashing experience. Just remember to grab your batteries and charger to unleash its full power!
2. Losi RC Truck 1/6 Super Baja Rey 2.0 4 Wheel Drive Brushless Desert Truck RTR Battery and Charger Not Included Brenthel LOS05021T1
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready for some serious off-road action with the Losi RC Truck 1/6 Super Baja Rey 2.0! This beast is built for speed and adventure. It’s a 4-wheel drive brushless desert truck that looks just like a real trophy truck. It’s ready to hit the dirt right out of the box, but you’ll need to grab a battery and charger separately.
What We Like:
- It has cool, officially licensed Method Wheels and BFGoodrich Tires.
- The officially licensed Brenthel Trophy Truck body makes it look super realistic.
- It goes over 50 miles per hour thanks to its powerful Spektrum Firma 8s 1/6 750kv Brushless Motor.
- Three separate LED lightbars light up the way for nighttime adventures.
- It’s a READY-TO-RUN model, so setup is quick.
What Could Be Improved:
- Batteries and a charger are not included, so that’s an extra cost and step.
- It’s a large 1/6 scale, which means it takes up more space to store and transport.
This Losi Super Baja Rey 2.0 offers an exciting and realistic RC experience. With its impressive speed and tough design, it’s perfect for anyone craving high-octane desert racing fun.
3. ARRMA RC Truck Outcast 4X4 8S BLX 1/5 Stunt Truck Black RTR(Transmitter and Receiver Included
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready for some serious fun with the ARRMA RC Truck Outcast 4X4 8S BLX 1/5 Stunt Truck! This is the ultimate RC stunt truck for anyone who loves big jumps and wild action. It’s built super tough so you can bash it hard. The cool black look with matte and gloss finishes makes it stand out. You’ll love how powerful it is!
What We Like:
- It’s a 1/5 scale stunt truck, which means it’s really big and impressive.
- It’s built super strong with tough aluminum parts, so it can handle rough play.
- The shocks and other parts are bigger and stronger, making it better for stunts.
- It has a powerful 8S LiPo brushless motor system for amazing speed and power.
- It comes ready to run with a transmitter and receiver, so you can get started quickly.
- The new color scheme looks really cool.
What Could Be Improved:
- The batteries and charger are not included, so you’ll need to buy those separately.
- This is a high-performance RC truck, so it might be a bigger investment.
This ARRMA Outcast is a beast on wheels, ready to take on any challenge you throw at it. If you want an RC truck that’s both tough and incredibly fun, this is the one.
4. Hosim Mini 1:8 Brushless RC Cars for Adults
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready for an adrenaline rush with the Hosim VEXARO MAX, a 1:8 scale brushless RC truck built for speed and adventure. This high-speed RC car can hit an incredible 50+ MPH, making it a thrilling ride for adults and hobbyists. Its robust design and powerful features mean it’s ready to tackle any challenge you throw at it, whether you’re on the track or exploring off-road.
What We Like:
- Blazing fast speeds of over 50 MPH thanks to the Pro 3660 Brushless System and 3S battery.
- Built tough with an all-metal chassis, metal suspension arms, and hydraulic shocks for incredible durability.
- Upgraded 40Cr chrome steel differentials are highly wear-resistant, proven through extensive testing.
- Excellent stability and handling improve the overall driving experience.
- The 4×4 system and multi-surface tires make it an all-terrain dominator, ready for grass, dirt, and gravel.
- Long run times of up to 30 minutes on a single 3S battery charge.
- A responsive 9KG servo and 320ft control range offer precise maneuvering.
- Significant upgrade potential for enthusiasts.
What Could Be Improved:
- While waterproof, it’s always best to avoid deep submersion to protect electronics.
- The “mini” in the title might be slightly misleading given its 1:8 scale size, which is quite substantial for an RC.
The Hosim VEXARO MAX is a seriously impressive RC truck that delivers on speed and durability. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a high-performance, all-terrain RC experience.
5. Redcat Racing Rampage Chimera SR Sand Rail Vehicle
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready for some serious off-road fun with the Redcat Racing Rampage Chimera SR Sand Rail Vehicle! This 1/5 scale beast is built to conquer dirt and sand with its powerful 2-stroke gas engine and tough aluminum construction. It looks cool too, with a black and blue design and a realistic light bar. It comes mostly assembled, so you can hit the trails quickly.
What We Like:
- The powerful 30cc 2-stroke gas engine gives it a real punch.
- It’s built tough with a 4mm aluminum chassis and aluminum body oil-filled shocks.
- You can fine-tune its performance with many adjustable parts like suspension, brakes, and engine.
- Ball bearings throughout make it run super smooth.
- The included 2.4GHz radio system is reliable.
- It has a realistic look with a full roll cage and LED-ready light bar.
What Could Be Improved:
- It requires mixing unleaded gasoline with 2-stroke oil, which needs careful attention.
- Additional purchases like 2-stroke oil, filter oil, and AA batteries for the transmitter are needed.
This sand rail is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a powerful and customizable RC vehicle. It offers a thrilling driving experience right out of the box, with plenty of room for personalization.
Your Guide to Awesome 1/5 Scale RC Cars!
Thinking about getting a big, fast, and super fun 1/5 scale RC car? You’ve come to the right place! These giant remote-controlled machines are like miniature versions of real cars, and they’re a blast to drive. This guide will help you pick the perfect one.
What Makes a 1/5 Scale RC Car Great? Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these important things:
- Size Matters: 1/5 scale means the car is about one-fifth the size of a real vehicle. This makes them impressive and powerful.
- Power Source: Most big RC cars run on gasoline or electricity. Gas engines give you amazing power and long run times, but they can be noisy and need more upkeep. Electric cars are quieter, easier to start, and cleaner, but you’ll need to swap batteries.
- Durability: You want a car that can handle bumps and jumps. Look for strong parts that won’t break easily.
- Speed and Performance: Do you want to go super fast or crawl over tough terrain? Different cars are built for different things. Check the specs for top speed and how well it handles on dirt or pavement.
- Remote Control System: A good remote control makes driving easy and fun. Look for one with a good range so you can drive far away. Some have cool features like telemetry, which shows you how fast the car is going.
Important Materials for Tough RC Cars
The stuff your RC car is made of really matters.
- Metal Parts: Strong metals like aluminum are used for the chassis (the car’s frame), suspension parts, and shock absorbers. These make the car tough and able to take a beating.
- Strong Plastics: High-quality plastics are used for the body shell and other parts. They are light and can absorb some impact.
- Rubber Tires: Good rubber tires give your car grip on different surfaces. Some tires are designed for speed on pavement, while others are knobby for off-road adventures.
What Makes a 1/5 Scale RC Car Better or Worse?
Not all 1/5 scale RC cars are created equal. Here’s what can make a difference:
- Build Quality: How well the car is put together is super important. A car with tight screws, well-aligned parts, and no wobbly bits is usually better.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making really good, reliable RC cars. Doing a little research on the brand can help.
- Aftermarket Parts: Can you easily find replacement parts or upgrades for the car? If you can, it means you can fix it if something breaks or make it even better.
- Ease of Maintenance: Some cars are easier to work on than others. If you’re new to RC cars, a simpler design might be better.
User Experience and Fun Use Cases
Driving a 1/5 scale RC car is an amazing experience.
- Off-Road Adventures: These big cars are perfect for tackling dirt tracks, rocky paths, and even muddy fields. They can jump, climb, and power through tough spots.
- Speed Runs: If you love going fast, many 1/5 scale cars can reach impressive speeds on open pavement.
- Just Plain Fun: Even just driving around your backyard or a local park can be incredibly enjoyable. The sheer size and power are impressive.
- Learning and Tinkering: For those who like to get their hands dirty, these cars offer a great chance to learn about engines, electronics, and mechanics. You can upgrade parts and customize them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 1/5 Scale RC Cars
Q: Are 1/5 scale RC cars good for beginners?
A: They can be, but they are quite large and powerful. It’s helpful to have someone experienced show you the basics. They are also more expensive than smaller RC cars.
Q: What’s the difference between gas and electric 1/5 scale RC cars?
A: Gas cars have real engines and sound like small motorcycles. They need fuel and maintenance. Electric cars use batteries and are quieter and easier to start.
Q: How fast can a 1/5 scale RC car go?
A: It depends on the model, but many can go over 30 miles per hour, and some can go much faster!
Q: Do I need special tools to work on a 1/5 scale RC car?
A: Yes, you’ll need a set of hobby tools, often including metric hex drivers and screwdrivers.
Q: How long do batteries last in an electric 1/5 scale RC car?
A: Battery life varies, but you can often get 15-30 minutes of run time on a single charge, depending on how you drive.
Q: Are 1/5 scale RC cars expensive?
A: Yes, they are generally more expensive than smaller RC cars. You’re paying for the size, power, and durable parts.
Q: Can I drive my 1/5 scale RC car in the rain?
A: Some are more water-resistant than others. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Water can damage electronics if not protected.
Q: Where can I drive my 1/5 scale RC car?
A: You can drive them in large open areas like parks, empty parking lots, dirt tracks, or even your backyard if it’s big enough.
Q: How do I maintain a gas-powered 1/5 scale RC car?
A: You’ll need to refuel it, check the oil, clean the air filter, and make sure all parts are tight and working correctly. Regular maintenance keeps it running smoothly.
Q: What are some popular brands for 1/5 scale RC cars?
A: Some well-known brands include Losi, HPI Racing, ARRMA, and Redcat Racing.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.