Electric and Nitro RC Cars Compared

When it comes to classifying RC hobby cars, the major distinction to consider is electric or gas. Specifically, are the cars powered by a rechargeable battery, or do they run on fuel. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at some of the basic differences.

Electric cars are a good choice for beginners. There is not a lot of care requirements and almost no maintenance duties need be performed to keep them running. Unless, of course, you count plugging in the battery charger as maintenance. Stopping the fun to charge your battery is not something you want to do on a regular basis, so you might want to add a spare battery pack when you buy your first car. That way, one can be charging while you’re using the other.

Battery-powered RC cars tend to be slower than gas models, although it is possible to find some pretty fast electric cars. But if you’re a beginning RC modeler, then you probably are better off starting out with something that gives you time to learn the controls. Cutting your teeth on something that’s overpowered and overly sensitive can really me more frustrating than fun.

Gas-powered cars are usually not actually run using gasoline. Rather, it’s a mixture of different fuels called “nitro.”   Nitro-powered cars are much faster than the typical electric car right out of the box. So if the thrill of speed is what you’re looking for, then nitro is definitely the way to go. However, you should be aware of a few things.

First of all, nitro cars will require more of your attention before, during and after the racing. You have to be sure that everything is ready to go, including having enough fuel for your planned drive time. While you’re racing, you will be in control of more details, which will require a little more racing skill. Finally, when the race is over, there will be some maintenance tasks to perform to insure your car will be ready for the next race.