RC Scale Car Size Guide

A nice aspect of the radio controlled hobby is that it is not uni-dimensional by any means. Some RC models are designed for novelty purposes while others are meant to enter competitions. Other RC models provide casual fun while others will appeal to collectors. All RC cars can be considered to be miniature vehicles; however not all of them are simple toys. When talking about RC cars that have modeled after real vehicles, we must give some thought to RC car scales.

A popular subset in the world of RC cars consists of models that have been officially licensed by automakers. Depending on the brand and the licensing agreement, some of these RC models are mostly for collectible purposes, which means that they will seldom be put through rugged off-road conditions even if they are modeled after monster trucks. RC cars that are faithful replicas of their exotic full-size counterparts will hold their value and could be worth thousands of dollars in the future if they are no longer in production.

Automakers that grant licenses to RC car replica makers will insist that the models be properly scaled; this means that it needs to conform to a ratio comparable to the real car. If Ferrari, for example, agrees to license the likeness of its 1967 Ferrari Daytona for a limited-edition RC model, there may be a clause in the agreement that states only 1:10 models be sold, which means that the RC model is 10 times smaller than the real Ferrari.

RC Scale Car Size Guide

In essence, the lower the RC scale ratio, the closer it is to the real deal. A 1:1 RC model of the Bigfoot monster truck would be impossible because it would be the same size. When you have a 1:50 RC car, you are looking at a tiny model that is like a toy. When it comes to replicas, you want 1:12 scales because they provide enough room for details such as side mirrors, grills, spoilers, wings, chrome, and other exterior features.

Different Scale Model Sizes

To get an idea of how big or small RC models can be when scaled, consider the following:

* Models with a 1:24 ratio will start at about five inches in length, but they can go up to eight inches.

* Models with a 1:12 ratio will start around 14 inches and can be as large as 16 inches.

Faithful replicas tend to be larger, but not all of them. It should be noted that RC car scales also apply to interchangeable RC bodies that you can show off at competitions; they are not as detailed and are far more affordable than replicas.  Slot car bodies can also be scaled.

How Big is a 1:10 Scale Car?

When shopping for 1:10 RC cars, you will find that they start around 17.5 inches but can be as large as 22 inches in length, particularly if they emulate the look of classic American muscle cars. These 1:10 RC models should not be wider than 14 inches.

Learn More About RC Car Scale Sizes

Should you have any questions about RC car scale sizes, please do not hesitate to  contact our store. We can also answer questions about RC planes, boats, and drones.