We’ve all seen the very realistic 1:14 scale RC car models that are designed primarily for use on relatively smooth and flat surfaces. As well as their fully detailed bodies with realistic exterior and interior features, they typically have chassis with 2WD only, rear axle differential, road pattern tyres and poor ground clearance. They look great on your shelf as display models but have you ever wondered whether these “toy grade” RC models can actually perform when it gets rough?
Well, BlackSeaRC picked two of the most popular SUVs today, the Mercedes-AMG G63 and the Land Rover Range Rover Sport and subjected the RC versions to off-road testing to find out.
The Mercedes-AMG G63 is made by Chinese company Rastar. The body shape is the latest generation G-Class and has opening front doors and load compartment door. It can be purchased for around 2000 RUB.
The Land Rover Range Rover Sport is made by another Chinese company, RW Jianfengyuan Toys. It has slightly softer suspension than the “Gelik” so this should help it in the rough. I purchased mine for around 1700 RUB.
Both models use 2.4GHz radio systems. The Rastar uses AA type batteries for the car and radio handset. The Jianfengyuan uses AA batteries for the handset but has a rechargeable battery pack for the car.
For the off-road testing I chose a dirt track in the mountains by the Black Sea with small stones and rocks, dusty surfaces and inclines, plus a mostly dried-up riverbed with a few small puddles.
Both cars demonstrated similar performance characteristics. If you take the terrain carefully and choose your route then the cars go quite well even when it is rough. The suspension is not great on either model so it is best to go slowly to avoid damaging the car. If the obstacles get too large or the surface is too loose then the rear wheels easily spin and progress is halted. In most cases you can reverse out of a situation and try again with a different route. When the surface gets too steep then the motors don’t have much torque. Remember that these models are 1:14 scale and ground clearance is minimal so don’t set your expectations too high. Nevertheless, these SUVs can drive to places much more interesting than the living room floor and this makes them much more fun.
In summary, I was surprised how far they will actually go when pushed to the limit. It can be frustrating when the car gets stuck and you will probably wish for better performance. But please remember this is a “toy grade” RC for 2000 RUB or less. If you want better off-road performance then you will need to spend more money. My main concern with these cars was causing damage to the models because after 30-60 minutes of fun you’ll probably want to be able to take them home, dust them off and put them proudly on display again.
You can see both RC cars in action for yourself in the two videos attached below:
If you would like to find out more about either of the models featured then I invite you to visit BlackSeaRC (see below) where you will also find videos showing unboxing, close-up look at all details, additional testing and an assessment of the good/bad points.
Alternatively, if you are considering a “hobby grade” RC car instead, then you can also find other interesting reviews at BlackSeaRC.