Overview
The Tamiya Subaru Brat celebrates one of the most unique vehicles in automotive history. Originally produced by Subaru exclusively for the U.S. export market, the Brat achieved tremendous popularity throughout the 1970s and 1980s with its distinctive combination of passenger car comfort and pickup truck utility. Tamiya first released an RC version of this beloved truck in 1983, and this updated re-release brings the classic back with significant improvements while maintaining the nostalgic appeal that made the original so cherished.
This assembly kit stands out by including both a super-detailed resin body for shelf display and a lightweight polycarbonate body for actual racing and driving. The package also includes a driver figure for that authentic 1980s feel. The unique space frame chassis has been updated with modern improvements including diaphragm-type oil dampers and a differential-equipped gearbox, delivering better performance than the original while preserving its classic character.
Key Features
- Two bodies included: detailed resin body for display and polycarbonate body for driving
- Driver figure included for nostalgic authenticity
- Updated chassis with differential gear (improvement over original)
- Diaphragm-type oil dampers with coil springs on rear suspension
- Realistic 8-spoke wheels with block pattern tires
- Dog bone drive shaft joints for efficient power transmission
- 540 brushed motor and HobbyWing THW 1060 ESC included
Chassis Features
- Unique space frame chassis design
- 4-wheel independent suspension system
- Front double wishbone suspension with inboard springs
- Rear trailing arm suspension with oil dampers
- Differential-equipped gearbox (updated from original)
- Dog bone joint drive shafts for optimum transmission efficiency
- RS540 type motor mounting
- Three gear ratio options: 6.7:1, 7.3:1, 8.5:1
Historical Significance
- Original 1983 release (Item 58038) was a pioneering Tamiya truck model
- Re-release includes significant mechanical improvements over original
- Differential gear added where original had none
- One of Tamiya's most collectible vintage-style trucks
- Dual body inclusion honors both collectors and drivers
Performance Benefits
- Oil dampers provide superior suspension control over friction dampers
- Differential gear improves cornering ability significantly
- Dog bone drive shafts handle suspension travel without binding
- Block pattern tires offer versatile grip on multiple surfaces
- Three gear ratio options allow optimization for different conditions
- Polycarbonate body option enables worry-free driving
Usage Notes
- Suitable for multi-purpose terrain including light off-road
- Resin body recommended for display only - use polycarbonate for driving
- Resin body paintable with Tamiya TS spray paints
- Polycarbonate body uses Tamiya PS paints
- Consider upgrading to ball bearings for smoother operation
- Servo guard included (not listed in instructions - check parts)
Technical Specs
- Scale: 1/10
- Length: 453mm
- Width: 220mm
- Height: 175mm
- Weight: 1,840g (with resin body)
- Tread: Front 197mm, Rear 178mm
- Tire Width/Diameter: 35/82mm (Front and Rear)
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel Drive
- Gear Ratio: 6.7:1, 7.3:1, or 8.5:1
- Motor: RS540 type brushed
- ESC: HobbyWing THW 1060 included
- Chassis: ORV Space Frame
What's Included
- Subaru Brat resin body (for display)
- Subaru Brat polycarbonate body (for driving)
- Driver figure
- Space frame chassis
- 8-spoke wheels with block pattern tires
- Oil dampers and coil springs
- Differential-equipped gearbox
- RS540 type brushed motor
- HobbyWing THW 1060 Electronic Speed Controller
- Sticker sheet
- Assembly instruction manual
Needed to Complete
- 2-channel radio transmitter and receiver
- Steering servo
- 7.2V battery pack
- Compatible battery charger
- Tamiya TS paint (resin body) or PS paint (polycarbonate body)
Summary
The Tamiya Subaru Brat re-release is the definitive version of this classic 1980s RC truck. With significant improvements including a differential gear, oil dampers, and the inclusion of both resin and polycarbonate bodies, this kit satisfies collectors who want museum-quality display pieces and drivers who want to relive the golden age of RC trucks. The unique space frame chassis, authentic 8-spoke wheels, and included driver figure make this an essential addition for anyone who appreciates Tamiya's RC heritage. Whether displayed on a shelf or conquering backyard terrain, the Subaru Brat delivers classic style and improved performance.
