Description
Overview
The Tamiya Avante 2011 Hi-Po Race is the triumphant return of one of the most legendary and sophisticated RC buggies ever created. Originally released in March 1988, the Avante became an instant icon in Tamiya's R/C history, featuring groundbreaking innovations that were years ahead of their time. The machine introduced a unique shaft-driven 4WD system derived from Tamiya's first 4WD buggy, the Hotshot, combined with a revolutionary FRP double-deck chassis layout, longitudinal motor and battery positions, and a formula-style body with integrated chassis fairing.
After two decades, many of the Avante's pioneering mechanisms have become standard features on modern R/C cars—a testament to its forward-thinking engineering. The 2011 Hi-Po Race version gives this ultimate pure racing buggy the special re-release treatment it deserves, with significant upgrades including 2mm thick carbon fiber double-deck chassis replacing the original FRP, machined aluminum uprights, universal drive shafts, and a durable polycarbonate body shell. This is not merely a nostalgic recreation—it's a competition-ready buggy that combines legendary design with modern materials and manufacturing precision.
Key Features
- 1/10 scale R/C model assembly kit with 420mm length, 240mm width, 140mm height
- Iconic Avante design with formula-style body and chassis fairing
- 2mm thick carbon fiber double-deck chassis (upgraded from original FRP)
- Shaft-driven full-time 4WD system derived from Hotshot
- Longitudinal motor and battery positions for balanced weight distribution
- Center ball differential for increased stability
- Machined aluminum (duralumin) front knuckles
- Universal drive shafts for improved power delivery
- Fully adjustable 4-wheel double wishbone suspension
- Front and rear metal oil dampers with gold cylinders
- Compact gearbox with 3 small planetary gears
- Type 540 (25T) motor included
- Original packaging design revived
Historical Significance
- Original Avante released March 1988 as Tamiya Item 58072
- Featured Tamiya's first center differential for stability
- Introduced compact planetary gear gearbox design
- First cam-lock wheel cap system
- Formula-style body influenced modern buggy aesthetics
- 2011 re-release features authentic original packaging design
- All parts stored in blister packs like original release
Chassis Features
- 2mm thick carbon fiber upper and lower decks
- Carbon fiber rear damper stay (thicker than original, connected L/R)
- Longitudinal motor position for optimized balance
- Longitudinal battery position for weight distribution
- Center ball differential for stability
- Compact gearbox with planetary gear system
- Clamp-type aluminum wheel hubs (hex compatible)
- 260mm wheelbase with 200mm front/rear tread
- 40mm minimum ground clearance
Performance Benefits
- Carbon fiber chassis increases rigidity over original FRP
- Duralumin front knuckles enhance durability and strength
- Universal drive shafts improve power transmission efficiency
- Center ball diff provides smooth, stable acceleration
- Fully adjustable suspension enables precise setup tuning
- Gold cylinder oil dampers with bottom caps for easy maintenance
- Balanced weight distribution for confident jumping
- High-traction off-road tires for maximum grip
Usage Notes
The Avante 2011 is designed for serious off-road racing and performs best on hard-packed dirt tracks and groomed off-road surfaces. Important note: the motor is positioned in a way that makes changing it difficult without significant disassembly—choose your motor carefully before final assembly. The hex wheel hubs are compatible with Item 53880 Large Dish Wheels (4WD/Front) and Item 53881 Large Dish Wheels (Rear) in addition to the original cam-lock style wheels. Compatible with all Tamiya R/C systems including 2.4GHz. Body requires painting with Tamiya PS polycarbonate spray paints.
Technical Specs
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scale | 1/10 |
| Length | 420mm |
| Width | 240mm |
| Height | 115-140mm |
| Wheelbase | 260mm |
| Tread (Front/Rear) | 200mm |
| Ground Clearance | 40mm (minimum) |
| Weight | 1,300g (assembled) |
| Tire Size | 38mm width / 88mm diameter (front and rear) |
| Drive | Shaft-driven full-time 4WD |
| Chassis | Carbon fiber double-deck |
| Suspension | Multi-link / Double wishbone (fully adjustable) |
| Dampers | Metal oil-filled (gold cylinders, bottom caps) |
| Differentials | Center ball diff, front/rear gear |
| Gear Ratio | 8.33:1 |
| Motor | Type 540 (25T) |
| Manufacturer | Tamiya |
| Item Number | 58489 |
What's Included
- Complete unassembled Avante 2011 chassis kit
- 2mm carbon fiber upper and lower deck plates
- Carbon fiber rear damper stay
- Duralumin (machined aluminum) front knuckles
- Universal drive shafts
- Polycarbonate Avante body (clear)
- Polycarbonate wing and chassis fairing
- Metal oil dampers with gold cylinders
- Center ball differential
- High-traction off-road tires (4)
- Cam-lock style wheels (4)
- Type 540 (25T) motor
- Decal sheet (Avante logo same as original)
- Comprehensive instruction manual
Needed to Complete
- 2-channel radio system (transmitter and receiver)
- Standard-size steering servo
- Electronic speed controller (ESC)
- 7.2V battery pack (compatible with Ni-Cd, Ni-MH, LF packs)
- Compatible battery charger
- AA batteries for transmitter
- Tamiya PS polycarbonate spray paints
- Basic assembly tools
Summary
The Tamiya Avante 2011 Hi-Po Race represents the pinnacle of Tamiya's classic buggy engineering, enhanced with modern materials and manufacturing. The carbon fiber chassis, duralumin components, universal drive shafts, and gold-cylinder oil dampers transform this iconic design into a competition-capable machine while preserving the legendary aesthetics and innovative mechanisms that made the original Avante a milestone in RC history. Perfect for collectors, vintage racing enthusiasts, and serious buggy racers seeking a piece of Tamiya's most celebrated legacy.