Overview
The Tamiya Hornet EVO is a celebratory 1/10 scale 2WD off-road buggy assembly kit marking the 40th anniversary of The Hornet's original 1984 release. This updated variant takes everything that made the original Hornet legendary and enhances it with modern performance features while preserving the iconic single-seater buggy form. The EVO features 4-wheel independent double wishbone suspension, CVA oil dampers, full ball bearings, and a sealed rear gearbox with DT-02 differential—significant upgrades that transform this nostalgic classic into a genuinely capable modern platform.
The Hornet EVO retains the lightweight, superbly balanced chassis built around the original slim ABS plastic bathtub frame, with R/C equipment positioned atop the inline battery pack in the lower center for optimal weight distribution. New features include turnbuckle upper arms for camber adjustment, dogbone-style drive shafts for reliability, and updated flame graphics celebrating four decades of Hornet heritage. Whether you're a long-time fan revisiting an icon or a newcomer discovering a legend, the Hornet EVO delivers the perfect blend of classic styling and modern performance.
Key Features
- 1/10 scale electric 2WD off-road buggy assembly kit
- 40th Anniversary celebration of the 1984 original
- Classic Hornet polycarbonate body design (0.7mm thick)
- Updated flame graphics with "40" anniversary designation
- 4-wheel independent double wishbone suspension (NEW)
- CVA oil dampers front and rear (NEW)
- Full ball bearings throughout drivetrain (NEW)
- Sealed rear gearbox with DT-02 differential (NEW)
- Turnbuckle upper arms for camber adjustment
- Dogbone-style drive shafts
- Original ABS bathtub frame design
- Front ribbed tires and rear spike tires
- 3-piece assembly wheels (two hub types included)
- 540 brushed motor included
- ESC included
- Driver figure included
40th Anniversary Heritage
The Hornet is one of Tamiya's most beloved RC buggies, helping launch a worldwide 2WD buggy boom when it debuted in 1984. This EVO version celebrates four decades of Hornet heritage with updated graphics featuring the classic flame livery and a prominent "40" designation. The included driver figure and faithful body shape honor the original while the upgraded suspension and drivetrain bring the Hornet into the modern era.
Chassis Features
- Slim ABS plastic bathtub frame (original design)
- 251mm wheelbase
- Battery mounted low and central
- R/C equipment atop inline battery position
- Upper I-arms and lower H-arms suspension geometry
- Adjustable camber via turnbuckle upper arms
- Rear-mounted motor with sealed gearbox
- 9.28:1 gear ratio (with 17T pinion)
Performance Benefits
- CVA oil dampers provide excellent shock absorption
- Full ball bearings ensure efficient power transmission
- Sealed differential protects against dirt and debris
- Turnbuckle arms allow precise handling tuning
- Optimized weight balance for stable off-road handling
- Two wheel hub types for tire compatibility options
Usage Notes
- Designed for dirt, gravel, grass, and off-road surfaces
- Ideal for backyard bashing and casual racing
- Suitable for beginner to intermediate builders
- Polycarbonate body requires painting before assembly
- ESC and motor included—reduced parts needed to complete
- Compatible with Tamiya Hop-Up Option wheels and tires
Technical Specs
| Specification |
Detail |
| Scale |
1/10 |
| Length |
430mm (16.9") |
| Width |
230mm (9.1") |
| Height |
135mm (5.3") |
| Weight |
1,075g (without electronics/battery) |
| Wheelbase |
251mm |
| Drivetrain |
2WD Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Chassis |
Hornet EVO (ABS Bathtub) |
| Motor |
540 Brushed Type (included) |
| ESC |
Included |
| Suspension |
4-Wheel Independent Double Wishbone |
| Dampers |
CVA Oil-Filled (F/R) |
| Differential |
Sealed 3-Bevel (DT-02 type) |
| Gear Ratio |
9.28:1 |
| Bearings |
Full Ball Bearings |
| Front Tires |
21mm width / 73mm diameter (ribbed) |
| Rear Tires |
49mm width / 86mm diameter (spike) |
What's Included
- Tamiya Hornet EVO 1/10 2WD buggy assembly kit
- 0.7mm polycarbonate body with classic Hornet shape
- 540 brushed motor
- Electronic speed controller
- CVA oil dampers (front and rear)
- Full ball bearing set
- 3-piece wheels (two hub types)
- Front ribbed and rear spike tires
- Driver figure
- 40th Anniversary decal sheet
- Illustrated instruction manual
Needed to Complete
- 2-channel radio system (transmitter and receiver)
- Steering servo
- 7.2-7.4V battery pack
- Compatible battery charger
- Tamiya PS polycarbonate spray paint
- AA batteries for transmitter
Summary
The Tamiya Hornet EVO celebrates 40 years of one of RC's most iconic buggies with meaningful upgrades that transform a beloved classic into a genuinely capable modern platform. The addition of CVA oil dampers, full ball bearings, 4-wheel double wishbone suspension, and a sealed DT-02 differential brings real performance improvements while preserving the timeless Hornet styling that made the original legendary. For collectors, nostalgic enthusiasts, and newcomers alike, the Hornet EVO offers the perfect blend of heritage and capability.
