The Fastest Gas RC Car in the World: Records and Real Speeds
According to Guinness World Records, the fastest internal-combustion (gas/nitro) RC car reached 137.86 km/h (85.66 mph), driven by Jason Bradbury on the set of The Gadget Show in Stratford-upon-Avon, UK, on 29 October 2008. Electric RC cars have since gone much faster, with records over 200 mph, because brushless motors and LiPo batteries deliver huge power in a light package. Among cars you can buy, fast 1/5 and 1/8 gas cars typically run in the 40–60 mph range, with modified cars faster.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Records at a glance
| Record | Speed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fastest internal-combustion RC car | 137.86 km/h (85.66 mph) | Jason Bradbury, UK, 2008 (Guinness) |
| Fastest battery-powered RC car | Over 200 mph | Electric records are far higher |
Records change; check Guinness World Records for the latest holders.
Why electric is faster
Brushless motors produce enormous power for their weight, deliver it instantly, and need no tuning for air and temperature. LiPo batteries supply very high currents. Internal-combustion engines in RC sizes are limited by rpm, cooling, fuel delivery and weight. That’s why modern speed-run records belong to electric cars, while gas cars remain popular for their sound, long runs and engine tuning.
Fast gas cars you can buy
Large 1/5 gas buggies and on-road cars and 1/8 nitro buggies are the fastest internal-combustion cars commonly available. Stock speeds are typically around 40–60 mph, with tuned engines, pipes, larger carbs and taller gearing pushing higher. Popular fast 1/5 cars are compared in fastest 1/5 scale gas RC cars. If pure speed is the goal, electric cars like those in fast RC cars that do 100 mph are the easier route.
How gas cars go faster
- Tuned exhaust pipes for more top-end power.
- Larger carburettors on modified engines.
- Taller gearing for higher top speed.
- Belted, balanced tyres that don’t balloon.
- On-road bodies and setups with less drag.
Speed runs safely
- Use a long, smooth, closed surface with permission.
- Keep spectators well behind and to the side.
- Check the failsafe and engine kill switch.
- Inspect tyres and drivetrain before each run.
- Measure with a GPS logger, two directions averaged.
The record run
The 2008 record was set for a TV programme, showing how much preparation goes into an official attempt: a specially prepared car, a suitable course, and independent measurement under Guinness rules. Many claimed speeds online are not officially verified, so treat them with care.
Nitro vs petrol
“Gas” RC cars can mean nitro (glow fuel) or petrol engines. Nitro engines in 1/8 cars rev very high and give quick acceleration; petrol engines in 1/5 cars produce more torque and run longer per tank. Both can be tuned for speed, but both are limited by heat, fuel delivery and the strength of clutches and drivetrains. Choosing between them for speed usually depends on the scale you want to run.
Measuring your speed
Use a GPS logger fixed securely to the car. Make runs in opposite directions on the same stretch and average them to cancel wind and slope. Phone apps and radar guns are less precise. Record and compare results after each change to know what actually helps.
FAQ
What is the fastest gas RC car?
The Guinness record is 85.66 mph (137.86 km/h), set in 2008.
Are electric RC cars faster than gas?
Yes, electric records are far higher.
How fast are 1/5 gas cars?
Typically around 40–60 mph stock.
Can I make my gas car faster?
With pipes, carbs, gearing and tyres, within safe limits.
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
