【RC Car Legends】Vol.3: Tamiya Boomerang – My Ultimate Partner on the Track

Hello everyone!

We’ve finally arrived at the third and final chapter of my childhood RC car journey. In the last post, I shared my bittersweet memories of the Tamiya Hotshot. This time, I want to introduce the car that I used the longest and cherished the most. This is the story of a true masterpiece: the Tamiya Boomerang.

Overview: The True Evolution of the Hotshot

Released in December 1986, the Boomerang was the direct successor to Tamiya’s first 4WD buggy, the Hotshot. It was designed to improve upon its predecessor, combining high performance with user-friendliness. This balance made it an incredibly beloved machine among RC fans, and for me, it remains the most memorable car of all.

Superior Features and Specifications

The Boomerang brilliantly addressed the shortcomings of the Hotshot. The most significant improvement was its greatly enhanced serviceability. A large opening in the chassis bathtub frame made accessing and replacing the battery incredibly simple—a welcome change for any racer.

The car’s performance was also exceptionally stable. While it inherited the Hotshot’s shaft-driven 4WD system, the suspension was upgraded. The original mono-shocks were replaced with more conventional CVA oil dampers on all four wheels, improving its handling on rough terrain. The futuristic wedge-shape body and large rear wing also gave it an unforgettable look.

Key Specifications

The Boomerang’s Place in Tamiya’s Legacy

The Boomerang is often considered the perfection of the Hotshot-based chassis. Its blend of performance and accessibility solidified the popularity of Tamiya’s 4WD buggy lineup. This success paved the way for subsequent models like the Super Sabre, making the Boomerang an indispensable part of Tamiya’s rich history.

A Uniquely Japanese Icon

Like the Hotshot, the Boomerang’s legendary status in Japan was cemented by its appearance in the popular manga magazine “CoroCoro Comic.” In the series “Radicon Boy” (RC Boy), the Boomerang was a hero’s car, capturing the imaginations of young readers across the country. Seeing it perform incredible feats in the manga made it more than just a toy; it became a symbol of dreams and adventure for an entire generation.

Still Running Today! The Re-Release

For those who want to experience this fantastic machine, there’s great news: the Boomerang has been re-released! In 2008, a re-release kit was launched to the delight of nostalgic fans. While retaining the classic design, it includes modern updates to accommodate current RC electronics. It’s the perfect way for adult fans like me to relive the excitement of the golden era of RC.

Conclusion: The Partner That Gave Me the Best Memories

This concludes my three-part series on my childhood RC cars. Among them, the Boomerang holds the most special place in my heart. I assembled it without any issues, and it ran faithfully for the longest time, kicking up dirt at the local park. That image is a memory I’ll never forget. It was the ultimate partner, the car that taught me the true joy of the RC hobby.

Thank you so much for following along with my RC Car Legends series!