1/5 Scale RC Cars: Gas and Electric Giants Explained
1/5 scale RC cars are the largest common RC class: around 80–100 cm long and about 10–15 kg. They include gas-powered buggies and trucks like the HPI Baja 5B and 5T and the Losi 5IVE-T 2.0 and DBXL, as well as big electric bashers like the Arrma Kraton 8S. Their size lets them handle rough ground, long grass and big jumps, but they need space, a large budget, strong maintenance habits and care around people.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20264 min read
Popular 1/5 models
| Model | Type | Power |
|---|---|---|
| HPI Baja 5B | 2WD buggy | Gas, 23–26 cc |
| HPI Baja 5T | 2WD truck | Gas |
| Losi 5IVE-T 2.0 | 4WD short-course truck | Gas |
| Losi DBXL | 4WD desert buggy | Gas or electric versions |
| Arrma Kraton 8S | 4WD speed monster truck | Electric, 8S |
From maker listings, checked October 2026; versions and availability vary.
Size and weight
A Baja 5B is about 817 mm long with a 570 mm wheelbase and weighs about 9.6 kg without fuel. Other 1/5 models are similar or larger. That means a big boot, a large workspace and care lifting them. Transport and storage are part of ownership.
Gas or electric
Gas cars use cheap petrol mixed with two-stroke oil and run long sessions with quick refuels, plus engine sound. Electric 1/5 cars are faster off the line and quieter but need large, expensive LiPo packs and chargers. Gas cars need carburettor tuning and air filter maintenance; electric cars need careful battery handling. Gas power is explained in gas powered RC models.
Costs
- The car itself, often several times the price of a 1/10.
- Fuel and oil, or large battery packs and charger.
- Big tyres, which wear and cost more.
- Spare parts sized for heavy loads.
- Tools and a stand for maintenance.
Where to run
You need open space: large fields, tracks or private land. Noise from gas engines limits where you can run. Never run near people, roads or animals; a 10 kg car at speed is dangerous. Check local rules.
Maintenance
- Clean the air filter often (gas).
- Check wheel nuts, suspension bolts and engine mounts.
- Inspect clutch, brakes and drivetrain.
- Grease bearings and check for play.
- Store fuel safely; drain for long storage.
Baja specifics are in HPI Baja 5B and HPI Baja 5T.
Speed
Stock gas 1/5 cars typically reach roughly 35–50 mph; modified and electric 1/5 cars can be faster. See fastest 1/5 scale gas RC cars.
Other large scales
Some large cars are 1/6 or 1/7 scale, and some are sized like 1/5 without saying so. Compare actual length and weight rather than scale labels. Large cars in general are in large RC cars for adults.
Is 1/5 right for you?
A 1/5 car makes sense if you have big open spaces, a place to work on it and a budget for parts. If you mostly drive in a garden or small park, a 1/8 or 1/10 car will be more fun and much cheaper to run. Many owners come to 1/5 after years with smaller cars and enjoy the presence, sound and toughness of the big models. Before buying, check what your local hobby shop stocks in parts, because waiting weeks for a broken arm or gear is frustrating. Joining a large-scale club or forum helps with tuning, events and used parts.
Tools
Larger hex drivers, nut drivers, a spark plug wrench, threadlock and a sturdy stand make maintenance much easier.
FAQ
How big is a 1/5 scale RC car?
About 80–100 cm long and around 10–15 kg.
Are 1/5 RC cars gas or electric?
Both exist; gas is traditional.
Are they good for beginners?
Only with space, budget and careful maintenance.
How fast are they?
Typically 35–50 mph stock for gas.
More on this topic: the complete RC Cars guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
