Speed is easily one of the most satisfying things about RC cars. I mean, who doesn’t enjoy driving a lightning-fast RC car and making huge jumps with it?
So a lot of people will be interested in getting a fast RC car. Traxxas is a well-known brand name in the RC community, so are Traxxas cars fast, and if so, just how fast are they?
Traxxas RC cars can go very fast. Generally speaking, Traxxas cars can reach top speeds of 20 to 100 mph. The entry-level Traxxas RC cars will usually go as fast as 20 to 50 mph, while Traxxas RC cars suitable for experienced hobbyists can reach between 70 to more than 100 mph.
Traxxas offers a wide variety of RC cars, each one with its unique features and capabilities. If you want to find out more about how fast Traxxas cars are and what makes them so unique, continue reading below.
How Fast Does the Fastest Traxxas RC Car Go?
It would not be professional if I overlooked how fast the fastest Traxxas RC car in production can actually go when talking about Traxxas RC cars and their speed.
Currently, the fastest Traxxas RC car is the XO-1. The Traxxas XO-1 does 0 to 60 mph in 2.3 seconds and 0 to 100 mph in 4.92 seconds. With such a high acceleration and a top speed of over 100 mph, this is easily one of the fastest RC cars currently in production.
What makes the Traxxas XO-1 so fast is the aerodynamic design and powerful Traxxas Big Block brushless motor combined with the 6S battery and ESC. The electric motor has been specifically designed to deliver the high amounts of torque necessary to push through the high air resistance.
And if you are wondering why the electric motor is called a big block motor (a terminology that should be reserved for nitro or gas engines), the reason is its sheer size—the Traxxas Big Block brushless motor is just big!
Of course, the Traxxas XO-1 has a lot more going on for it. For such speeds and acceleration, some additional features are required, like higher quality parts, an improved stability management system (which makes this tiny beast more stable and easier to control), an improved braking system, and so much more.
Despite its higher price, it is still an RC car that is worth owning.
Are Traxxas Rc Cars Fast?
It seems like Traxxas RC cars are really fast. However, one cannot really say if they are fast without having a point of reference. So how do they compare with the other RC vehicles one can find on the market?
The fastest speed ever achieved by an electric RC car is held by the “Radio Controlled Bullet”, which achieved the astonishing 202.02 mph. However, this is a custom-built and designed RC car by Nic Case and his team, so you will not find it on the market.
Some people may even argue that it doesn’t even look like a normal RC car, which is understandable because it was not built for bashing or racing. It was built for one thing only—being as fast as possible.
Compared to the “Radio Controlled Bullet”, Traxxas cars may seem a little slow, but this is only if we compare them to the current world’s number one.
In comparison, the fastest RC car that Traxxas makes is the XO-1. Which is touted by Traxxas as the fastest RC car in production and can achieve 100+ mph. It is designed after the Bugatti Veyron.
Now, if we take a look at standard RC cars, we can see that they are definitely not as fast since they are designed for different purposes like bashing, on track and off-track racing, and more.
The majority of entry-level hobby RC cars can reach speeds of up to 35 mph. The mid-range hobby-grade RC cars will be significantly faster and can reach speeds of 35 to 70 mph. Drag and modified RC cars can reach speeds between 80 to over 100 mph.
Traxxas RC cars are definitely fast. After taking a more in-depth look at Traxxas RC cars, we can see that they offer a wide variety of RC cars.
Traxxas RC cars can reach top speeds between 30 and over 100 mph, depending on the RC car’s model and setup. This means that Traxxas will be able to offer something that will be suitable for almost every RC car enthusiast.
Do More Expensive Traxxas Rc Cars Go Faster?
Although the top speed of an RC car will affect its price, it is far from being the only factor determining it. Generally speaking, you can expect an RC car to cost more, much like a regular-sized car. However, just because an RC car is more expensive does not mean it can go faster.
You can expect RC cars that are capable of reaching top speeds of 30 to 35+ mph to cost between $170 to $250 on average. Traxxas cars capable of reaching 60+ mph will cost, on average, around $400. And Traxxas RC cars that can go 65+ to 70+ mph can cost between $350 and $420.
After reviewing the majority of Traxxas RC cars, there are a lot of exceptions, though, some general correlations can be found. Some RC cars will just have more features, capabilities, different parts, built quality, design, and scale ratio.
This is why some RC cars capable of reaching 50 mph may cost as much as $930, while at the same time, the Traxxas XO-1 capable of a top speed of more than 100 mph costs around $800.
Another exception is the Traxxas Summit, which costs around $500 while capable of reaching 20 mph with its stock parts. At the same time, the Traxxas Rustler VXL costs almost half of that and can reach 35+mph stock. (And up to 70+mph when bought with a different battery and gearing.)
Understanding the impact of stock parts is important as even the majority of the faster Traxxas RC cars will be capable of reaching only 30 to 35 mph with stock parts. Only when you opt for the more expensive and higher-performing batteries, gearing, and other parts may you be able to achieve the top speeds the RC car is capable of.
Do Faster Traxxas Rc Cars Break Faster?
The community seems to be split when it comes to Traxxas RC cars. People either hate Traxxas or love it.
One of the problems many people report is that Traxxas RC cars seem to be breaking a lot. If you take a look at most forums and online communities, you are almost bound to see some remarks on Traxxas’ durability accompanied with photos of broken Traxxas RC vehicles.
However, nothing lasts forever, and RC vehicles are usually put through a lot of abuse during their life.
Let’s not forget that Traxxas is not a racing company. Although some Traxxas RC vehicles can be raced out of the box, and with some tweaks and adjustments, they can perform very well on the track. Traxxas RC cars are designed for bashing, and to a certain degree, it can be expected for them to break eventually.
It really comes down to how the RC vehicles are being used, driven, and looked after.
Overall, Traxxas RC cars are tough and good for what they are built for.
Of course, your mileage may vary.
Any RC model breaks, in my opinion, regardless of who made it—especially when it comes to hitting an RC car in the curb at 50+ mph.
Their quality is fine, nothing outstanding but nothing too terrible either. The aftermarket for Traxxas is also huge, so anyone who is interested in tweaking or changing something on their RC car will be sure to find the parts they need. Traxxas RC cars are definitely not a toy-grade, and they are great for anyone who wants to get into this hobby.
How Fast Do the Different Traxxas RC Cars Go?
Now to get a more hands-on idea of how fast Traxxas RC cars can get, let’s take a look at some of the most popular Traxxas RC models and how fast they can move.
Check out this post; How to Make RC Trucks Faster: A Step by Step Guide
Keep in mind that those numbers may not always be achievable with the stock parts. For example, to reach the full potential of those vehicles, you may have to purchase a different battery with a higher capacity, change the gearing or the motor.
How Fast Does the Traxxas Summit Go?
The Traxxas Summit is among the slowest RC cars offered by Traxxas. It can reach top speeds of 20 mph stock and about 30+ mph if modded. The Traxxas Summit is an excellent all-terrain RC monster truck.
How Fast Does the Traxxas Slash 2WD Go?
Traxxas Slash 2WD has a top speed of 30+ mph. This is another short-course RC truck by Traxxas that is perfectly capable of meeting your needs both on the track and off the track. The Traxxas Slash 2WD takes the best of both worlds and can be found at very affordable prices.
How Fast Does the Traxxas Stampede Go?
The base model of the Traxxas Stampede can reach a top speed of 30+ mph. The Traxxas Stampede is not as fast as some of the other Traxxas RC monster trucks, but its durability and longevity are almost unbeatable in this price range.
How Fast Does the Traxxas Stampede XL-5 Go?
The Traxxas Stampede XL-5 can reach speeds of 30+ mph. The Traxxas Stampede is not designed to go super fast, but it is a monster truck that delivers unbeatable performance, fun, and durability at a very modest price.
How Fast Does the Traxxas Rustler XL-5 Go?
The Traxxas Rustler XL-5 is capable of reaching a top speed of 35+ mph. The Traxxas Rustler XL-5 is a fairly fast stadium truck that delivers not just performance but durability and longevity—it is built to last. The Rustler XL-5 is not among the fastest RC cars by Traxxas. However, it is a very budget-friendly model.
How Fast Does the Traxxas X-Maxx Go?
The Traxxas X-Maxx can reach up to 50+ mph. If you are looking for a powerful and very fast RC monster truck that can handle almost everything you throw on its path, the X-Maxx is the perfect solution.
Please check out my detailed article reviewing the Traxxas X-Maxx
How Fast Does the Traxxas TRX 4 Go?
The Traxxas TRX-4 can go as fast as 50+ mph. Despite the fact that the Traxxas TRX-4 is more of a rock crawler, it is still very fast. The Traxxas TRX-4 is among the fastest rock crawlers you can find on the market.
How Fast Does the Traxxas Maxx Go?
With its top speed of 60+ mph, the Traxxas Maxx is not just fast but also a very fun RC monster truck to drive. The Traxxas Maxx is built for both speed and durability.
How Fast Does the Traxxas Slash 4×4 Go?
With its top speed of 60+ mph, the Traxxas Slash 4×4 is truly a fast RC car. This is a short-course truck that delivers durability and performance. The high speeds and better control and maneuverability of the Slash 4×4 make it an excellent choice for people who want something fast and precise.
Related post: Slash vs Senton: I Ran A Poll To Find Out Which Is Best
How Fast Does the Traxxas Rustler 4×4 VXL Go?
With a top speed of 65+ mph, the Traxxas Rustler 4×4 VXL is among the fastest RC cars produced by Traxxas. The Rustler 4×4 VXL will leave no RC fan disappointed. This RC car is super fun to drive, and its durability and speed are making it an RC car worth owning.
How Fast Does the Traxxas Stampede 4×4 VXL Go?
The Traxxas Stampede 4×4 VXL can go as fast as 60+ mph. The Traxxas Stampede 4×4 VXL is a powerful RC monster truck that can be used with different batteries. When used with the 7-cell NiMH battery, it can reach speeds of 35+ mph. However, with the 3S LiPo pack, it can show its true capabilities reaching more than 60 mph.
How Fast Does the Traxxas Rustler VXL Go?
The Traxxas Rustler VXL has a top speed of 70+ mph. If you are looking for a really fast stadium truck by Traxxas, the Rustler VXL is definitely a worthy candidate. The Traxxas Rustler VXL is among the fastest stadium trucks on the market.
Slash or Rustler? Check out my article to help you choose.
How Fast Does the Traxxas Bandit VXL Go?
With its top speed of 70+ mph, the Traxxas Bandit VXL is among the fastest RC buggies you can get on the market. The Traxxas Bandit VXL is a lightweight but super-fast buggy that is built for offroad adventures.
How Fast Does the Traxxas E-Revo Go?
The Traxxas E-Revo has a top speed of 70+ mph. The Traxxas E-Revo is an RC monster truck designed for high-speed racing. It is built for raw strength, speed, and performance.
How Fast Does the Traxxas Ford GT Go?
The Traxxas Ford GT can reach top speeds of 30+ mph. The Traxxas Ford GT rocks a powerful electric motor and a stunning true-to-life sports car design that will not leave you wanting more. It can be purchased with different batteries and chargers for higher runtime and faster charging time.
What Makes Traxxas Rc Cars So Fast?
Several different factors affect the speed of RC cars. These also affect the speed of Traxxas RC vehicles. So let’s take a more detailed look.
The Motor
The motor is what converts the power from the battery into movement.
This is why the type of motor can have a big impact on the RC vehicle’s performance.
The majority of Traxxas RC cars come with motors that are either brushless or brushed.
Brushed motors provide lots of power, but the internal brushes generate more friction and negatively affect the motor’s performance. The higher friction also generates more heat.
Related post: How to Tell if an RC Motor is Bad: A Straight Forward Guide
Brushless motors are highly efficient due to the lack of brushes and produce better output. They are generally speaking smaller and quieter than brushed motors and also generate less heat. Brushless motors are also more durable, require less maintenance, and last longer.
As you can see, brushless motors are definitely the way to go, and it is not a surprise that they are predominantly used in RC cars today. The brushless motors are replacing brushed motors.
Generally speaking, brushless motors are between 5 to 15% more efficient compared to brushed motors. (Although these numbers can vary a lot and should be considered a general guideline.)
Both Brushed and Brushless motors can be found on Traxxas RC cars. For example, the Traxxas Stampede 4X4 VXl, Bandit VXL, and the XO-1 all come with brushless motors, while the TRX-4 has a brushed motor.
I believe a few words should also be mentioned about nitro engines. Nitro RC cars are not as popular as they once were. Generally speaking, nitro RC cars are faster than electric RC cars, though that is not always true. (Remember that the current world record is held by an electric RC car.)
For example, the Traxxas Nitro Rustler can reach 50+ mph.
The Battery
The type of battery also matters. Using the right battery can not only have a big impact on the top speed of an RC car but also on its running time, recharge time, and even acceleration.
NiMH batteries are good, but not great. LiPo batteries, on the other hand, are lighter than a NiMH battery of the same voltage and capacity. On top of that, LiPo’s can deliver a more stable and consistent voltage as they drain (unlike NiMH batteries).
All that makes LiPo’s feel more powerful and punchy than NiMH batteries. Simply swapping your stock NiMH batteries for a LiPo battery will positively affect your RC car’s top speed and acceleration capabilities.
However, it is not as easy as taking a battery out and putting another battery in. Not all RC cars will be compatible with all batteries. Whether an RC car will be able to take a different battery will depend on the capabilities of the motor, ESC, the type of connectors, the size of the battery, and more.
Let me stop you right here because it is essential to know that the battery for your Traxxas RC car can be sold separately.
Traxxas RC cars can be purchased with NiMH batteries or LiPo batteries. Higher voltage (read more cells) LiPo batteries will supply your RC car with more power and make it run faster. Each Traxxas model will have a list of supported batteries.
However, if you plan to use a different type of battery or purchase it from another vendor or manufacturer, you should make sure it is suitable for your Traxxas RC car.
The Gearing
The gearing is oftentimes where the magic really happens. A bad gearing ratio can make even the fastest and most nimble RC car slow and boring.
RC vehicles come with stock parts that will not necessarily allow them to achieve the best performance and fast speeds. To a certain degree, some people will not like that sneaky way of making enthusiasts spend more upgrading their RC cars. Still, on the other hand, this makes the RC vehicles more beginner-friendly and affordable.
Both the pinion and the spur gears will affect how fast your RC car goes.
Generally speaking:
- A smaller spur gear or a bigger pinion gear will make an RC car have more top speed but will negatively impact torque and acceleration.
- And a bigger spur gear or a smaller pinion gear will improve an RC car’s torque and acceleration but lower its top speed.
You can change one or even both gears at the same time. The good news is that Traxxas offers a wide number of different spur and pinion gears. This means you can choose from a wide variety of different gearing options and ratios.
Tires and Suspension
Tires also have an impact on the RC vehicle’s speed. This is why you should know that stock tires will not always be geared toward the best performance and top speed.
Using the right tires on the right surface is mandatory if you want your RC car to move as fast as possible. In addition to that, going with high-quality RC tires is also advisable as they usually provide better control, traction, cornering, and higher speeds.
The Drive Wheels
Generally, there are two types of RC cars: two-wheel drive RC cars (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) RC cars.
Four-wheel drive RC cars typically pack more power. They are faster and have better acceleration than their 2WD counterparts.
For example, if we compare the Stampede VXL, which is 4WD, with the base Stampede or the Stampede XL-5—both of which are 2WD—we will see a big difference in their top speed capabilities. The Stampede VXL is capable of reaching 60+mph while the other two 30+mph.
This is why some of the fastest Traxxas RC cars like the TRX-4, XO-1, and the E-Revo are also 4WD.
Traxxas sells both 2WD and 4WD RC cars. Certain modes are even sold with both options available.
The Size
It is not a surprise—a bigger and heavier RC car will be slower than a smaller one.
Nonetheless, there is a certain sacrifice that needs to be made here.
A smaller RC vehicle may end up being harder to control while a heavier one will have a better grip with the surface, but its acceleration and top speed will be negatively affected.
There are many different sizes of RC cars, which can range from 1/5 to 1/64. But the most popular scales are the 1/8 and 1/10, which can be considered fairly big.
When it comes to Traxxas, it is no secret that their RC cars seem a little bigger than other RC cars of a similar scale.
However, scales are not necessarily a hard constant. An RC car with a scale of 1/10 simply means that is ten times smaller than the real regular sized vehicle it imitates. But real-sized vehicles also vary in size. So the size of RC cars of a similar scale can also vary.
Some companies try to mention what is known as scale speed. This means that they will calculate the theoretical top speed of their RC car using its scale. Or in other words, a one-tenth scale RC car will have one-tenth of the speed of the real sized car.
But if we take a look at the Traxxas XO-1 with its 100+mph top speed and a scale of 1/7, this means that the real-size Bugatti Veyron should be capable of reaching 700+mph, which is not the case. Even the modified version of the Bugatti Veyron was capable of reaching a little below 305 mph.
Scale speed may not be considered a good practice per se and more of a marketing gimmick.