Description
Overview
The Tamiya Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evo.II Team Zakspeed RC assembly kit recreates one of the most iconic touring cars from the golden era of German motorsport. This 1/10 scale model faithfully depicts the Diebels Alt-sponsored Team Zakspeed Mercedes-Benz as it competed in the 1992 German Touring Car Championship (DTM), where Mercedes, Audi, and BMW battled for supremacy on circuits across Germany. The aggressive Evolution II bodywork with its distinctive overfenders, front spoiler, and massive rear wing made this car instantly recognizable on the grid.
Built on Tamiya's evolved TT-01 Type-E shaft-driven 4WD chassis, this kit combines authentic 1990s DTM styling with beginner-friendly construction and proven on-road performance. The polycarbonate body expertly captures the muscular 190 E form, complemented by metal-plated Mercedes emblems and front grille, separately molded side mirrors, and comprehensive sponsor decals. With included HobbyWing ESC and Torque Tuned motor, plus extensive Hop-Up Option compatibility, this kit delivers excellent value for DTM enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Key Features
- 1/10 scale R/C model assembly kit with 445mm length, 184mm width, 137mm height
- Authentic 1992 Team Zakspeed Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evo.II body
- Polycarbonate body with Evolution II overfenders and front spoiler
- Separate polycarbonate rear wing parts
- Metal-plated Mercedes-Benz three-star emblem
- Metal-plated front grille detail
- Separately molded plastic side mirrors
- Comprehensive Diebels Alt sponsor livery decals
- TT-01 Type-E evolved shaft-driven 4WD chassis
- Gold 6-spoke wheels with racing slick tires
- 540-Type Torque Tuned motor included
- HobbyWing THW 1060 Brushed ESC (2-3S) included
- 257mm wheelbase
Historical Significance
- 1992 DTM season featured intense Mercedes vs. Audi vs. BMW competition
- Team Zakspeed was a renowned German racing team
- Diebels Alt brewery was prominent DTM sponsor
- 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II was ultimate development of the W201 platform
- Road car featured 235 horsepower 2.5-liter 16-valve engine
- Only 502 Evolution II road cars produced for homologation
- Distinctive aerodynamic package developed in wind tunnel
Chassis Features
- Evolved bathtub frame with low center of gravity
- Motor and battery positioned close to ground for optimal balance
- Fiberglass reinforced nylon upper deck for improved rigidity
- Fiberglass reinforced gear covers
- 3-piece tie rod for smooth steering action
- Shaft-driven longitudinal 4WD layout
- Front and rear 3-bevel differentials
- 4-wheel double wishbone suspension
- Front and rear friction dampers
- 257mm wheelbase
- 8.35:1 gear ratio
- Extensive Hop-Up Option parts availability
Performance Benefits
- Excellent 4WD on-road handling from balanced design
- Low center of gravity improves cornering stability
- Smooth steering response from 3-piece tie rod
- Front and rear gear differentials for consistent traction
- Highly adaptable chassis with extensive upgrade path
- Easy to build and maintain
- Proven TT-01E platform with established tuning knowledge
- Racing slick tires optimized for tarmac grip
Usage Notes
Designed for on-road driving on smooth paved surfaces including parking lots, driveways, and RC tracks. The TT-01E chassis is an excellent platform for learning RC car setup and driving techniques, with a huge range of available Hop-Up Options for performance improvement. Standard plastic bushings can be upgraded to ball bearings for reduced friction. Recommended for builders ages 14 and up. Body requires painting with Tamiya PS polycarbonate spray paints.
Technical Specs
| Scale: | 1/10 |
| Length: | 445mm |
| Width: | 184mm |
| Height: | 137mm |
| Wheelbase: | 257mm |
| Tire Width/Diameter: | 27mm / 67mm |
| Drive: | Shaft-driven 4WD |
| Chassis: | TT-01 Type-E |
| Chassis Material: | ABS Plastic |
| Body Material: | Polycarbonate |
| Motor: | 540-Type Torque Tuned Brushed |
| ESC: | HobbyWing THW 1060 (2-3S compatible) |
| Suspension: | Fully independent double wishbone |
| Dampers: | Friction type |
| Differentials: | 3-bevel gear (front and rear) |
| Gear Ratio: | 8.35:1 |
| Bearings: | Plastic bushing (upgradeable) |
| Manufacturer: | Tamiya |
| Item Number: | 58638-A |
What's Included
- Complete unassembled TT-01 Type-E chassis kit
- Polycarbonate Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evo.II body (clear)
- Separate polycarbonate rear wing parts
- Metal-plated Mercedes-Benz three-star emblem
- Metal-plated front grille
- Separately molded plastic side mirrors
- Gold 6-spoke wheels (4)
- Racing slick tires (4)
- Diebels Alt Team Zakspeed sponsor decal sheet
- Car number and detail stickers
- 540-Type Torque Tuned brushed motor
- HobbyWing THW 1060 electronic speed controller
- Comprehensive instruction manual
Needed to Complete
- 2-channel radio system (transmitter and receiver)
- Standard-size steering servo
- 7.2V-7.4V battery pack (NiMH or 2S LiPo)
- Compatible battery charger
- AA batteries for transmitter
- Tamiya PS polycarbonate spray paints
- Basic assembly tools
Recommended Upgrades
- Ball bearing set for reduced friction
- Aluminum motor mount for improved heat dissipation
- CVA oil damper set for adjustable suspension
- Aluminum propeller shaft for drivetrain rigidity
- Carbon fiber upper deck for weight reduction
Summary
The Tamiya Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evo.II Team Zakspeed RC Kit captures the excitement of 1992 DTM racing with authentic styling and proven TT-01E chassis performance. With its distinctive Evolution II aerodynamics, metal-plated Mercedes details, included motor and ESC, and extensive upgrade potential, this kit delivers excellent value for DTM enthusiasts, Mercedes collectors, and newcomers seeking a classic touring car with modern RC reliability.