Gas vs Electric RC Cars [A Detailed Comparison]

Last Updated on November 10, 2023 by Jaxon Mike

Remote control (RC) cars have been around since the 1960s, providing hobbyists around the world with a fun and exciting way to race miniature versions of real automobiles. While the technology has improved drastically over the decades, RC cars are generally categorized by whether they are powered by gas engines or electric motors.

Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that make them more suitable for certain RC enthusiasts and conditions. This article will examine gas and electric RC cars in detail, comparing their power systems, performance, maintenance requirements, and overall cost considerations.

The rising popularity of RC cars stems largely from the continuing enhancements being made to both gas and electric models. Modern versions can reach speeds over 60 mph while mimicking the appearance of real sports cars or off-road trucks. Additionally, advancements in materials and electronics allow today’s RC cars to be more durable and capable than ever before. For devoted RC hobbyists, choosing between gas and electric often comes down to weighing priorities like speed, runtime, and simplicity of use.

Here is an in-depth comparison table contrasting gas and electric RC cars:

Category	Gas RC Cars	Electric RC Cars
Power Source	Miniature internal combustion engine running on nitromethane fuel	Brushed or brushless electric motor powered by rechargeable LiPo battery packs
Runtime	20-30 minutes per tank	8-15 minutes per battery charge
Power Output	Up to 3+ horsepower for high performance engines	Typically under 2 horsepower, but brushless systems improving
Speed Potential	Over 70 mph with optimized modifications	Around 50 mph with upgraded brushless systems
Throttle Response	Good, but not instant	Very quick and smooth
Sound	Loud realistic engine noises and exhaust notes	Nearly silent operation
Requirements	Need to buy and fill specialty nitro fuel	Must recharge batteries between uses
Weather Issues	Not significantly affected by temperatures	Battery life reduced in cold weather
Maintenance Needs	High – air filters, carb tuning, glow plugs, cooling system	Low – battery and motor upkeep
Costs Over Time	Nitro fuel inexpensive, engines long-lasting	Replacing batteries adds to costs over time
Crash Durability	More breakable parts, engine rebuilds	Electric components are generally more durable
Weight	Heavier due to fuel tank and engine	Can be optimized for lighter weight designs
Terrain Suitability	Excellent for high speed runs, climbs inclines well	Ideal for technical tracks, precise maneuvering
Hop-Up Potential	Nearly unlimited performance gains with engine mods	Limited by battery output as restricting factor
Competition Classes	Very common, with dedicated gas events	Growing niche as technology progresses
Beginner Suitability	Not recommended for first RC car	Easier for novices to use and maintain
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Gas RC Cars

How Gas RC Cars Work

Gas RC cars utilize miniature internal combustion engines that run on nitromethane fuel blends. This allows them to reproduce the sound and smell of real car engines in a scaled-down size. The engine powers a drivetrain consisting of a clutch, transmission, and differentials which route torque to the wheels. A dedicated radio control system is installed to allow remote operation of the throttle and steering. Gas engines provide longer runtimes and greater horsepower potential compared to electric models. However, they require more maintenance and produce fumes.

Advantages of Gas RC Cars

• Longer Run Times: With large fuel tanks and efficient engines, a single fill-up of nitro fuel can keep gas RC cars running for 20-30 minutes. This provides more time for racing or uninterrupted bashing.
• More Power: High-performance .15 to .28 cubic inch gas engines can put out over 3 horsepower, giving gas RC cars insane speed. Modifications can push the power even higher.
• Authentic Engine Sounds/Smells: The scream of the engine and smells of exhaust provide realism that electric models lack. The noise adds to the excitement.

Disadvantages of Gas RC Cars

• Require Fuel: Nitro fuel has to be purchased and filled before each use. Running out mid-run requires walking back to the pits.
• More Maintenance: Gas engines need air filters cleaned, carburetors tuned, cooling systems maintained, and exhausts replaced. This means more wrenching.
• Louder: With unsilenced exhausts, gas RC cars produce high noise levels that may bother some drivers and locations. Electric RCs are much quieter.

Electric RC Cars

How Electric RC Cars Work

Instead of engines, electric RC cars use efficient electric motors powered by rechargeable battery packs. The motors provide instant throttle response and quiet operation. Powerful lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries allow extended runtimes. Since they lack complex combustion components, electric RCs require less maintenance. Their simple and clean power systems make electric RC cars popular for both novice and advanced hobbyists.

Advantages of Electric RC Cars

• Clean and Quiet: Electric motors have no exhaust, so electric RC cars don’t produce fumes or noise pollution. This makes them better suited for indoor or residential use.
• Less Maintenance: Without engine components, electric RCs just need battery and motor upkeep. This is less complex for beginners.
• Easy to Use: Electric models provide smooth throttle control. Recharging batteries overnight is simpler than refueling gas tanks. This improves convenience.

Disadvantages of Electric RC Cars

• Shorter Run Times: Average battery life is 8-12 minutes per charge which is less than gas. More battery packs can offset this downside.
• Less Power: Most electric RC cars produce under 2 horsepower, limiting their speed compared to high-performance gas models. Upgrading to brushless motors helps.
• Need to Charge Batteries: Running out of juice mid-run stops the fun. Planning ahead and having spares is key for electric RC use

Factors to Consider

Choosing between gas and electric RC cars involves weighing several factors that determine which is better suited for your needs as a hobbyist. Key considerations include terrain types, availability, speed, costs, and skill level.

Terrain Suitability

The power delivery of gas and electric models makes them preferable for certain terrain conditions. Gas RC cars excel at high speed runs across open spaces thanks to their sustained power output. Their torque also helps climb steep inclines. Electric RCs are nimble and precise, making them ideal for technical tracks and trails. Their instant throttle response aids tight maneuvering.

Availability of Areas to Run

Since gas RC cars produce smoke and loud noise, finding suitable areas to run them can be tricky in some regions. Their fumes and decibel levels may exceed regulations for public spaces like parks. Electric RCs have more flexibility since they don’t create emissions or disturb residents. You can run electric models in more locations which improves convenience and accessibility.

Speed and Power Potential

Modified gas engines can reach over 70 mph in powerful 1/5 scale RC cars. This gives gas models the edge for extreme speed runs. Electric cars produce less horsepower, but modern brushless systems can still propel RCs over 50 mph. Upgraded motors and batteries narrow the power gap with gas.

Costs Over Time

While gas RCs have a higher upfront purchase cost, they are comparable or even cheaper to operate over the long run. Nitro fuel is relatively inexpensive and engines last for years with proper maintenance. Replacing LiPo battery packs to maintain performance adds to the operating costs of electric models over time.

Skill Level Required

Electric RCs are typically easier for beginners to use since their simple power systems require less maintenance. Gas models involve changing air filters, tuning the carburetor, replacing the glow plug, and general engine upkeep. Novices may find electric cars quicker to get running. Gas engines provide a learning opportunity for enthusiasts wanting to understand internal combustion mechanics.

Additional Comparison Factors

• Weather conditions: Gas cars are less impacted by temperature changes compared to battery life in electrics. But gas models won’t run well in rain.
• Crash damage: Gas cars tend to break more parts and require engine rebuilding after crashes. Electric components are more durable.
• Weights: Gas models weigh more due to fuel which affects handling. Electrics can be designed lighter.
• Hop-up potential: Advanced hobbyists have almost limitless modification potential with gas engines. Electric performance gains are limited by battery output.
• Completion: Gas RC events are common for racing and speed runs. Electric classes are expanding as technology improves.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between gas and electric RC cars?

Gas RC cars use internal combustion engines that run on nitro fuel, producing high power and realistic engine sounds. Electric models use battery-powered electric motors for efficiency and quiet operation.

Are gas or electric RC cars faster?

Peak speeds favor gas models, with specialized engines hitting over 70 mph. But electric brushless systems are catching up, reaching 50+ mph.

Which is better for beginners?

Electric RC cars are usually better for novices since they require less maintenance and are easier to use overall.

Which has a longer runtime?

Gas models can run for 20-30 minutes per tank. Electric runtimes average 10-15 minutes per charge. Multiple batteries extend electric run times.

What maintenance do gas RC cars need?

Gas engines need air filters and carburetors cleaned, ignition timing adjusted, cooling systems maintained, and exhaust pipes replaced.

Conclusion

When it comes to gas versus electric RC cars, there are merits to both power systems. Gas provides long runtimes, realistic sounds, and tremendous speed potential but requires more maintenance and specialty fuel. Electric delivers convenience, efficiency, and tech that keeps improving but range and power are still catching up to gas. Ultimately, your budget, goals, and terrain will determine the right type of RC car for your needs. 

Gas models favor powerhungry enthusiasts, while electric suits beginner and intermediate hobbyists. With advancements in batteries and brushless systems, electric RC cars are becoming competitive in more areas traditionally dominated by gas. But gas technology also continues progressing, ensuring it remains the leader for peak power and speeds. For casual bashing and neighborhood use, electric RCs are quieter and easier to operate.

Gas models provide the ultimate performance but require a larger commitment. Whether you want nitro roar or electric efficiency, RC cars provide incredible fun you can hold in your hand. As technology expands what’s possible in small-scale, choosing between these two power sources comes down to aligning your priorities with the capabilities that gas and electric models deliver. With insightful comparisons, you can decide which is best for fueling your need for RC speed.