Hello everyone!
Following up on my last post about the Hornet, I’m excited to continue down memory lane with my RC car history. This time, I’m introducing the very first RC car I owned as an elementary school student: the Tamiya Hotshot, the company’s first-ever 4WD buggy.
However, this machine holds a somewhat bittersweet memory for me. I struggled to assemble it correctly, and it stopped working shortly after. Despite that, let’s dive into the story of this legendary machine.
Overview: The First 4WD Racing Buggy
The Tamiya Hotshot, released on April 16, 1985, was a true game-changer. In an era dominated by 2WD buggies, the Hotshot’s 4WD system was revolutionary, quickly making it an object of desire for countless kids, including me. It became an icon that defined a generation of RC enthusiasts.
Innovative Specs and Features
The Hotshot was packed with groundbreaking mechanics. Its aggressive, low-profile body was a sight to behold. The shaft-driven 4WD drivetrain provided exceptional stability and traction on off-road surfaces.
One of its most distinctive features was the unique mono-shock suspension system, with a single oil damper for the front and one for the rear, both mounted horizontally. The fully enclosed gearboxes were another key innovation, protecting the gears from dust and debris.
Key Specifications
| Length | 390mm |
| Width | 235mm |
| Height | 150mm |
| Weight | Approx. 1270g |
| Drivetrain | Shaft-Driven 4WD |
| Suspension | 4-Wheel Double Wishbone |
The Hotshot’s Place in Tamiya’s Legacy
The Hotshot is a landmark model in Tamiya’s history. It single-handedly established the 4WD racing buggy category and set the stage for future legendary models like the Avante and Egress. It was the foundation upon which Tamiya built its dominance in the 4WD off-road scene.
A Uniquely Japanese Phenomenon
The Hotshot’s popularity in Japan was amplified by a few unique cultural factors:
- CoroCoro Comic: A massively popular monthly manga magazine for children, “CoroCoro Comic,” heavily featured Tamiya’s RC cars. The manga series “Radicon Boy” (RC Boy) often showcased the Hotshot, turning it into a hero car and fueling the dreams of young readers.
- Tamiya RC Car Grand Prix: This was a televised RC car racing program that aired from 1984 to 1999. Seeing the Hotshot compete in these races made it even more desirable for kids watching at home, creating a nationwide craze.
The Legend Reborn: The Re-Release
For fans like me who have bittersweet memories of the original, Tamiya answered our prayers. In 2007, a re-released version of the Hotshot was introduced.
This modern version faithfully retains the spirit of the original while incorporating updated parts for better reliability and easier assembly. Key upgrades include a more durable dog-bone type driveshaft. Now, I might finally have a chance to build one correctly and redeem my childhood self!
Conclusion
The Tamiya Hotshot remains a special car for me. Despite my early struggles, its innovative design and historical significance are undeniable. It’s a machine that captures the excitement and passion of the golden age of RC cars.
Next time, I’ll introduce the final car from my childhood RC collection. Stay tuned!
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