Top Nitro RC Cars: Find the Best One for You

Top Nitro RC Cars: Find the Best One for You

If you’re looking for a thrilling and action-packed hobby, nitro rc cars offer one of the most exhilarating experiences. These cars are powered by a nitro-methane fuel which has earned them the nickname “gas cars” due to their gasoline-like exhaust smell. Nitro rc cars differ from electric rc cars in terms of speed, power, and sound. They can reach extremely fast speeds of up to 70 mph, and their engines produce a loud and distinct roar that adds to the excitement of using the car. The popularity of nitro rc cars continues to grow as car enthusiasts seek out a more advanced and realistic racing experience that mimics the thrill of real-life motorsports. However, with so many options on the market today, it can be challenging to know which nitro rc car to buy. In this article, we’ll guide you through the top considerations and recommend some of the best nitro rc cars for both beginners and experienced users.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Nitro RC Car

Before buying a nitro rc car, there are several factors to consider. Some of these include:

  • Engine capacity: Nitro rc cars have various engine sizes. For beginners, it’s advisable to go for cars with engines ranging from .12 to .18 as they are easy to handle. Advanced drivers may opt for engines that produce more horsepower up to .28.
  • Durability: Consider the durability of the car especially if you are a beginner. You don’t want to spend a lot of money on a car that breaks easily. Look for cars with stronger materials like aluminum.
  • Handling: How easy is it to control the car? Look for cars with a good suspension system, which can help you navigate different terrains easily.
  • Price: Nitro rc cars range in price depending on the features, brand, and quality. Decide on a budget before going shopping for one.
  • Brand: Stick to known brands in the market that have a reputation for good quality cars.

In addition to these, other factors to consider are the build quality, availability of replacement parts, and ease of maintenance. Some websites that have vast collections of nitro rc cars from reputable brands include Amazon, NitroRCX, and HobbyTron. It’s always advisable to read reviews and compare product specifications before making a purchase.

How do I choose the best RC car?

Choosing the best RC car needs to consider factors like the type, scale, battery, 2WD vs 4WD, spare parts, and brand. Choosing between off-road or on-road RC car types depends on personal preference and driving location. Scale refers to the size of the RC car compared to a full-sized one. Most RC cars run on electric motors, so it’s important to check the battery specs. 2WD and 4WD refer to the number of wheels that receive power. Spare parts can be expensive, so choosing a brand that offers affordable and readily available replacements is essential. Some websites like Horizon Hobby and AMain Hobbies offer a variety of high-quality RC cars from different brands.


Top Picks for Beginners

If you’re new to the world of nitro rc cars, there are several great options available. Here are some of the best nitro rc cars for beginners:

Model Engine Size Price Range
Redcat Racing Shockwave .18 $200 – $300
Traxxas Jato 3.3 .15 $400 – $500
Losi 8IGHT-T Nitro Truggy .21 $500 – $600
  • Redcat Racing Shockwave: One of the most affordable nitro rc cars on the market, the Shockwave is perfect for beginners who want to dip their toes in without breaking the bank. It’s easy to handle, and spare parts are readily available.
  • Traxxas Jato 3.3: The Jato 3.3 is an excellent option for those looking for a bit more power and speed. With its 2-speed transmission, it can reach speeds of up to 65 mph. However, it is a bit more expensive than other options on this list.
  • Losi 8IGHT-T Nitro Truggy: The Losi 8IGHT-T Nitro Truggy is a great option for those who want to take their nitro rc car experience to the next level. It has a larger engine than other options on this list, and the 4-wheel drive makes it easy to handle. However, it is the most expensive option on this list.

These nitro rc cars are all great options for beginners, but it’s worth noting that they all require some level of maintenance. Proper maintenance will not only extend the lifespan of the car but also ensure it runs at its best. It’s also worth mentioning that some of the best websites to purchase these nitro rc cars include Amazon, NitroRCX, and HobbyTron.

What is RC nitro car?

A nitro RC car is a type of hobby-grade remote control car that uses an engine fueled by a methanol-based fuel containing nitromethane. This is the RC equivalent of a gasoline engine used in full-size cars. Some hobby-grade RC cars use gas-powered engines that use gasoline rather than nitro fuel.

Top Picks for Advanced Users

For those with more experience with nitro rc cars, there are several high-performance options available. Here are some of the best nitro rc cars to buy for advanced users:

Model Engine Size Price Range
HPI Racing Trophy Truggy 4.6 .28 $600 – $700
Traxxas Nitro Rustler .15 $400 – $500
Losi 5IVE-T 2.0 BND .31 $1,200 – $1,300
  • HPI Racing Trophy Truggy 4.6: With its large .28 engine, the Trophy Truggy 4.6 is a powerhouse that can handle almost any terrain. It’s also easy to tune and maintain, which is ideal for those who like to customize their cars.
  • Traxxas Nitro Rustler: The Nitro Rustler is a great all-around nitro rc car that’s suitable for a variety of activities, including racing and bashing. The .15 engine is powerful enough to reach impressive speeds, and the oil-filled shocks provide a smooth ride.
  • Losi 5IVE-T 2.0 BND: The Losi 5IVE-T 2.0 BND is the most expensive option on this list, but it’s worth it for those who want the ultimate nitro rc car experience. With its massive .31 engine and 4-wheel drive, it can handle just about anything you throw at it.

All of these nitro rc cars are great options for advanced users, but it’s worth noting that they require a bit more experience and knowledge to operate and maintain. Proper maintenance will not only ensure their longevity but also keep them operating at peak performance. Some of the best websites to purchase these nitro rc cars include Tower Hobbies, AMain Hobbies, and NitroRCX.

Are nitro RC cars better than electric?

Electric cars are faster than nitro cars, especially with upgrades. The ready to run models usually come with basic plastic parts, but racers have the option to upgrade to higher performance and more durable metal parts. Some electric models can reach speeds of 60+ mph.


When it comes to finding the best nitro rc car to buy, there are a lot of options to choose from. Nitro rc cars are a popular choice among rc enthusiasts because they offer more power and speed than electric cars. Plus, they have a unique engine sound and require more tuning and maintenance, which some people find to be a fun and rewarding aspect of the hobby.

One of the top nitro rc cars on the market is the Traxxas Jato 3.3 2WD. This car is known for being fast and powerful, with a top speed of 65+ mph. It’s also relatively easy to maintain and has an adjustable suspension for better control on different terrain. However, it may be too fast for beginners and require frequent tuning.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Redcat Racing Tornado S30 is a good choice. This car has a price range of $200 – $300 and is durable and easy to use. However, it may be too slow for more advanced users and not perform as well on rough terrain.

For those who want to customize and tune their car, the HPI Racing Trophy Truggy 4.6 is a great option. This car has a powerful .28 engine size and can reach speeds of 50+ mph. However, it may require more maintenance than other options and is more expensive, with a price range of $600 – $700.

If you’re looking for a good all-around option, the Traxxas Nitro Rustler is a solid choice. This car has a .15 engine size and can reach speeds of 50+ mph. It’s also durable and easy to maintain. However, it may not be as fast as other options and is not ideal for off-road use.

Finally, for those who want the most powerful option available, the Losi 5IVE-T 2.0 BND is the way to go. This massive car has a .31 engine size and can reach speeds of 50+ mph. It’s great for advanced users and has 4-wheel drive for better control. However, it’s also the most expensive option on this list, with a price range of $1,200 – $1,300, and may be too much for some users to handle.

When purchasing a nitro rc car, it’s important to do your research and compare different options to find the one that best fits your needs and experience level. Some of the best websites to purchase nitro rc cars include Tower Hobbies, AMain Hobbies, and NitroRCX.

How fast is the Traxxas Nitro Rustler?

The Traxxas Nitro Rustler has a top speed of over 50 mph, powered by the TRX 2.5 Racing Engine. It is considered a high-performance 2WD nitro stadium truck. For more information, visit the Traxxas website.

Maintenance Tips

Here are some tips on how to maintain and prolong the lifespan of your nitro rc car:

  • After each use, clean the car thoroughly with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated during the run.
  • Regularly inspect the car for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose screws or damaged parts, and fix them promptly.
  • Oil the moving parts of the car, such as the gears and bearings, to keep them lubricated and prevent them from seizing up.
  • Store your nitro rc car in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and humidity, to prevent rusting and damage to the engine.
  • For long-term storage, remove the batteries from the car and store them separately to prevent the batteries from leaking and damaging the car.
  • When tuning your nitro rc car, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and make small adjustments at a time to avoid damaging the engine.
  • Get a good quality glow plug igniter and fuel bottle to make the starting process easier.

With proper maintenance, your nitro rc car can last for years and provide hours of enjoyment. Websites such as NitroRCX and Tower Hobbies offer a variety of spare parts, oils, and tools to keep your car running smoothly. Don’t hesitate to invest in quality maintenance tools!

What is RC car nitro?

RC car nitro is a type of nitro fuel used in RC cars that have nitro engines. This fuel contains a mixture of nitromethane and methanol, with nitromethane usually comprising between 10% and 40% of the mixture. Nitro RC Fuel is the term used to refer to this type of fuel. If you’re interested in purchasing nitro RC fuel, there are several websites and online stores that sell it, such as Tower Hobbies and NitroRCX.

Conclusion

Choosing the best nitro rc car can be a daunting task, but with the right information and guidance, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, we have covered the factors to consider when choosing a nitro rc car, as well as some top picks for both beginners and advanced users.

It’s important to note that regardless of your skill level, proper maintenance is crucial to the longevity and performance of your nitro rc car. With maintenance tips such as regular cleaning and inspection, oiling the moving parts, and proper storage, you can ensure your car lasts many years and provides hours of entertainment.

Finally, we recommend doing your research on websites and forums dedicated to nitro rc cars, as well as seeking advice from experienced users in the hobby. With the right knowledge and resources, you can find the best nitro rc car to suit your needs and preferences and enjoy the thrilling experience of nitro rc car racing.