Tamiya Sand Scorcher: The 1979 Classic and the 2010 Re-Release
The Tamiya Sand Scorcher is a 1/10 scale 2WD off-road buggy styled as a Volkswagen Beetle-based Baja Bug, first released in 1979 and re-released in 2010 as kit 58452. The re-release keeps the original layout with a 2 mm FRP main frame reinforced by a duraluminium plate, independent suspension (double trailing arms at the front, swing axles at the rear) with four oil dampers, and new die-cast suspension arms and hubs. It’s 400 mm long on a 250 mm wheelbase and is loved as much for its looks and build experience as for its driving.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20264 min read
2010 re-release specs
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Kit number | 58452 |
| Length / width / height | 400 / 230 / 180 mm |
| Wheelbase | 250 mm |
| Chassis | 2 mm FRP frame with duraluminium plate |
| Suspension | Front double trailing arms, rear swing axles, 4 oil dampers |
| Drive | 2WD rear |
| Gear ratios | 6.5:1 or 9.3:1 |
| Tyres | Front 21 × 73 mm, rear 41 × 82 mm |
From Tamiya’s product page.
Why it’s a legend
When it came out in 1979, the Sand Scorcher was one of the most realistic RC buggies available: a detailed hard ABS body, a driver figure and metal parts that made it feel like a real machine. Many hobbyists remember it as their first or dream RC car. The 2010 re-release let a new generation build one and gave original owners a way to relive it without paying collector prices. Its charm is in the scale look and the building, rather than speed or modern handling.
Building tips
- Follow the manual’s order; Tamiya instructions are clear and detailed.
- Use threadlock on metal-to-metal screws, especially in the suspension.
- Fill the shocks with the supplied oil and bleed out air.
- Paint the hard body from the outside with suitable model paints; mask windows.
- Fit the electronics: a standard steering servo, receiver and a compatible ESC; the kit is designed around a 540 brushed motor.
- Check the gear mesh and that the wheels spin freely before the first run.
Driving it
The Sand Scorcher is best driven at moderate speed on dirt paths, short grass and sand. The hard body and scale parts don’t like big jumps or rollovers at speed, and the swing-axle rear can make it tricky in fast turns. Many owners keep it as a “shelf queen” and drive it only gently, or run it with a spare body to protect the painted original. For a modern, tougher buggy, compare the best 1/10 scale RC cars.
Original vs re-release
Original 1979 Sand Scorchers are collectors’ items, with prices depending heavily on condition and originality, and unbuilt originals are rare. The 2010 version improved several parts (die-cast arms and hubs, redesigned dampers) and is the practical choice for driving. If you buy a used original, check for cracked body mounts, missing scale parts and replacement items from the re-release, which affect value.
Upgrades
- Ball bearings throughout, if not already fitted.
- A modern waterproof servo and a reliable ESC.
- A spare body to protect the painted one.
- Upgraded dampers for smoother running.
- Keep the stock look if you care about value.
About the hard body
Unlike most modern RC cars, the Sand Scorcher uses a moulded hard plastic body, which looks great but cracks more easily in crashes than a polycarbonate one. Body materials are compared in what RC car bodies are made of.
FAQ
When was the Tamiya Sand Scorcher released?
1979, with a re-release in 2010.
Is the Sand Scorcher fast?
No, it’s a scale buggy built for looks and fun driving.
What motor does it use?
It’s designed around a 540-size brushed motor.
Is an original worth a lot?
Original 1979 examples in good condition are collector items.
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
