Description
Overview
The Tamiya Volkswagen Golf II GTI 16V brings the iconic 1980s hot hatch legend to life in stunning 1/10 scale. The original Golf GTI, first appearing in 1974, established the compact performance car segment and the Golf II continued that legacy with even greater success. In 1986, the GTI 16V joined the second-generation lineup with a high-revving 1,781cc inline-4 DOHC 16-valve engine that delivered thrilling performance. Tuned versions competed in global rally races, while in the United States it became a beloved symbol of accessible German engineering and driving excitement.
This limited edition assembly kit features a polycarbonate body pre-painted in Bright Red (PS-34) with Smoke (PS-31) windows, pre-cut wheel arches, and pre-made body mount holes. The MB-01 chassis perfectly replicates the real car's front-motor, front-wheel-drive configuration for authentic driving characteristics. This versatile platform allows hobbyists to grow as their skills develop, with multiple wheelbase options and even the ability to convert to rear-wheel drive for other body styles.
Key Features
- Pre-painted polycarbonate body in Bright Red with Smoke windows
- Pre-cut wheel arches and pre-made body mount holes
- Separately molded black ABS plastic side mirrors and bumpers
- Transparent parts for headlights and taillights
- Porous dish wheels paired with radial tires
- 540-Type Torque Tuned brushed motor included
- HobbyWing ESC included
Chassis Features
- MB-01 compact 2WD chassis with front-wheel drive configuration
- Three wheelbase options: Short (210mm), Middle (225mm), Long (239mm)
- Convertible between front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive
- Low or high motor position available for RWD setups
- 4-wheel double wishbone suspension with symmetrical structure
- Friction dampers front and rear
- Unitized motor mount, final gears, and suspension sections
- Center-mounted battery, motor, and R/C equipment
Historical Significance
- The Golf GTI defined the "hot hatch" category from 1974
- Golf II GTI 16V debuted in 1986 with DOHC 16-valve technology
- Tuned versions competed successfully in international rallying
- Iconic fan favorite in the United States during the 1980s
- Represents the golden era of German compact performance cars
Performance Benefits
- Pre-painted body eliminates painting time for faster building
- FWD configuration provides authentic Golf-like handling
- Compact chassis delivers nimble, responsive driving
- Torque Tuned motor offers improved performance over stock
- Unitized sections facilitate easy assembly and maintenance
- Multiple configuration options for future projects
Usage Notes
- Best suited for on-road use on smooth surfaces
- Pre-painted body requires only sticker application
- Long wheelbase (239mm) recommended for this body as shown
- FWD handling may require throttle modulation through corners
- Upgrade to ball bearings for smoother operation
- Oil-filled dampers available as upgrades
Technical Specs
- Scale: 1/10
- Length: 383mm
- Width: 170mm
- Height: 138mm
- Wheelbase: 239mm (Long - adjustable to 210mm or 225mm)
- Drivetrain: Front-motor, Front-wheel Drive
- Motor: 540-Type Torque Tuned brushed
- ESC: HobbyWing included
- Chassis: MB-01
What's Included
- Volkswagen Golf II GTI 16V pre-painted polycarbonate body
- MB-01 chassis kit (FWD configuration)
- Porous dish wheels with radial tires
- 540-Type Torque Tuned brushed motor
- HobbyWing Electronic Speed Controller
- Black ABS side mirrors and bumpers
- Transparent headlight and taillight parts
- Sticker sheet
- Assembly instruction manual
Needed to Complete
- 2-channel radio transmitter and receiver
- Steering servo
- 7.2-7.4V battery pack
- Compatible battery charger
Summary
The Tamiya Volkswagen Golf II GTI 16V with pre-painted Red body is the perfect tribute to the iconic 1980s hot hatch. This limited edition kit combines the beloved Golf styling with authentic front-wheel-drive handling on the versatile MB-01 chassis. The pre-painted body accelerates your build time while the Torque Tuned motor and quality components ensure competitive performance. Whether you're a Golf enthusiast, a fan of 1980s automotive culture, or simply seeking a unique driving experience, this GTI 16V delivers nostalgic style and engaging FWD handling in an accessible package.