How Big Is 1/10 & 1/24 Scale RC Car?

Quick Answer

1/10 scale RC cars typically measure about 17.5 to 19.5 inches in length, while 1/24 scale RC cars are usually about 7 to 9 inches long.

For amateurs and enthusiasts, remote control (RC) automobiles have long captivated their curiosity since they provide an exciting opportunity to experience the excitement of driving without the demand for a full-size car. However, knowing the real proportions of car models can be a bit confusing, particularly given the several scale ranges available. This guide will help you grasp the real-world scale of these amazing tiny vehicles, regardless of your level of experience with RC hobbies.

What is Scale in the World of RC Cars?

Scale refers to the ratio between the size of a model and the size of the original full-size vehicle it represents. For example, a 1/10 scale RC car is one-tenth the size of the actual car it is based on, while a 1/24 scale RC car is one-twenty-fourth the size. This scaling relationship affects the physical dimensions, performance, handling, and overall characteristics of the RC car.

Common scale sizes for RC cars include 1/8, 1/10, 1/16, and 1/24, each offering unique advantages and trade-offs. Knowing the scale-to-original-vehicle relationship is essential when considering factors like required space, budget, and desired realism and performance.

What Are the Dimensions of 1/10 Scale RC Cars?

The 1/10 scale is one of the most popular and commonly used sizes. On average, a 1/10 scale RC car measures approximately:

• Length: 16-20 inches (40-50 cm)
• Width: 8-10 inches (20-25 cm)
• Height: 5-7 inches (12-18 cm)

A 1/10 scale RC automobile thus is one-tenth the size of the original full-size car it is modeled after. The 1/10 scale replica would thus be roughly 1.6 feet (0.49 meters) in length if the real-world car measures 16 feet (4.9 meters).

The 1/10 scale provides an excellent balance of size and performance. These RC cars are large enough to be stable and capable of handling rough terrain yet small enough to be easily transported and maneuvered. They are often equipped with powerful electric motors, high-capacity batteries, and advanced suspension systems that allow them to achieve impressive speeds of up to 30-40 mph (48-64 km/h) and handle challenging off-road conditions with ease.

This combination of realistic size and impressive performance is a big part of what makes 1/10 scale RC cars so popular among hobbyists and enthusiasts.

What Are the Dimensions of 1/24 Scale RC Cars?

The smaller 1/24 scale also has its own unique appeal and characteristics. On average, a 1/24 scale RC car measures approximately:

• Length: 7-9 inches (18-23 cm)
• Width: 3-4 inches (8-10 cm)
• Height: 2-3 inches (5-8 cm)

For example, if the real-world car is 16 feet (4.9 meters) long, the 1/24 scale version would be around 8 inches (20 cm) in length.

1/24 scale RC cars are often equipped with smaller electric motors, lighter batteries, and more agile suspension systems. This allows them to achieve respectable top speeds, typically ranging from 15 to 25 mph (24 to 40 km/h), while maintaining impressive maneuverability and control.

Their small size and weight also make 1/24 scale RC cars easier to transport and store, making them a popular choice for hobbyists with limited space or those looking to try out the RC car hobby without a significant investment.

How Does Scale Impact RC Car Size and Performance?

The scale size directly correlates to the physical dimensions, with a 1/10 scale model being much larger than a 1/24 scale version.

This size difference also affects weight since the larger 1/10 scale car will usually be heavier because of the use of more durable parts. Usually featuring more powerful electric motors and larger capacity batteries, larger scale models—such as 1/8 or 1/10—allow one to reach faster acceleration and top speeds and tackle more difficult terrain.

On the other hand, smaller 1/16 or 1/24 scale vehicles are more compact and agile, even if they may forfeit some raw power and handling performance. The scale size also affects the suspension components and general longevity; larger models have more advanced and flexible systems to handle more weight and demands.

How to Select the Right RC Car Scale for Your Needs

When choosing a remote control (RC) car, several key factors should be considered to ensure you select the appropriate scale size:

1. Available Space for Driving/Racing

• Larger 1/8 or 1/10 scale RC cars require more room for driving and racing, both indoors and outdoors.
• Smaller 1/16 and 1/24 scale models are better suited for tighter spaces.

2. Budget and Cost of the RC Car:

• Larger scale RC cars tend to be more expensive due to their more powerful components and robust construction.
• Lower-scale options are generally more affordable.

3. Desired Performance and Capabilities:

• Higher-scale models offer increased speed, torque, and off-road capabilities.
• Lower-scale options prioritize maneuverability and indoor-friendly features.

4. Transport and Storage Requirements:

• Smaller 1/24 scale RC cars are more compact and easier to store.
• Larger models may be more challenging to transport and require dedicated storage space.

FAQ about RC Cars

How wide is a 1:10 scale RC track?

Typically, a 1:10 scale RC track is about 8 feet wide for straightaways and 10 feet for corners.

What is the size of a standard RC car?

A standard 1:10 scale RC car measures around 17.5 to 19.5 inches long.

What is the largest RC car scale?

The largest commonly produced scale for RC cars is typically 1:5. They can be as long as 40 inches or more and are often used for off-road racing or large open spaces.