Last Updated on March 3, 2024 by Jaxon Mike

Gas powered RC cars provide an incredibly fun and realistic RC experience that electric models simply can’t match. With snarling, high-rpm engines and the ability to run for 30 minutes or more per tank, gas RC cars are perfect for backyard bashers and track enthusiasts alike.

But with so many options on the market, from nitro to petrol engines and monster trucks to purpose-built racers, how do you choose the right gas RC car? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about gas powered RC vehicles, including tips for choosing the best model for your needs and skill level. We’ll also showcase some of the top gas RC cars available today. Let’s get started!

Top Gas Powered RC Cars

Model	Type	Engine	Skill Level	Speed	Run Time	Key Features
Traxxas E-Revo 2.0	Monster Truck	.23 cubic inch, 2.5HP Nitro	Beginner	30+ mph	10-15 min	TQi radio, Stability Management, LED lights, rugged suspension
Losi LST XXL-2	1/8 Truck	.28 cubic inch, 3.4HP Nitro	Intermediate	30+ mph	10-15 min	Massive power, rear torque, backflips, AVC stability control
Arrma Kraton 6S BLX	1/8 Truck	O.S. Speed .28 Petrol	Advanced	50+ mph	20-30 min	15″ wheels, long travel suspension, 50+ mph speeds
Redcat Racing Volcano EPX Pro	1/10 Truck	8000 Petrol	Beginner	20 mph	10-15 min	Pull start, upgradeable, affordable
Team Associated RC10GT	1/8 Buggy	.21 cubic inch, 2.5HP Nitro	Advanced	40+ mph	20-30 min	Race-optimized design, adjustable settings

What are Gas Powered RC Cars?

Gas powered RC cars use internal combustion engines that run on nitro fuel or gasoline to provide power. This allows them to have much higher speeds and longer run times compared to electric models. The engine powers the vehicle’s drivetrain and rechargeable batteries provide power for the radio system and servos.

Nitro engines use a blend of methanol, nitromethane, and oil. They produce a loud, high-pitched whine and require more maintenance than petrol engines. Petrol engines run on regular unleaded gas and produce a deeper, throatier sound closer to a real car. They are easier to use but don’t offer quite as much power.

Benefits of Gas Powered RC Cars

So why choose a gas RC car over an electric? Here are some of the main benefits:

More Power

The small but mighty engines in gas RC cars produce significantly more power than most electric models. Top speeds of 30+ mph are common for hobby-grade gas cars, while electric models often top out around 20 mph unless you spend $500 or more. The abundant power lets you make massive jumps, pop epic wheelies, and blast across wide open spaces.

Longer Run Times

While electric RC cars may run for 10-15 minutes on a charge, you can expect 20-30+ minutes of run time from a tank of nitro or petrol in most gas RC cars. Some models even reach 45 minutes per tank! This gives you more time for non-stop driving action between pit stops.

Realistic Sound and Feel

The growl of the engine and sensations of speed, weight transfer, and grip when controlling a gas RC car make for an intensely realistic experience. It’s the closest you can get to the driving feel of a real performance car. The sound, smell, and vibrations add to the immersion.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Gas Powered RC Car

With an understanding of what makes gas RC cars unique, let’s look at some of the key factors to consider when choosing one:

Vehicle Type

Gas RC cars come in a variety of configurations to suit different driving styles:

Buggies

Resembling small dune buggies, these have an open-wheel design optimized for racing and rugged off-road driving. Great acceleration and handling.

Trucks

With the familiar shape of pickup trucks, these strike a balance between speed and versatility. The truck bed provides fun cargo carrying potential.

Monster Trucks

With oversized tires on trucks or buggy platforms, these offer maximum ground clearance and crushing off-road performance.

Engine Type

As discussed earlier, nitro and petrol each have pros and cons:

Nitro

More power, higher speeds, louder sound – but requires careful tuning and break-in. Needs to be warmed up and cooled down properly.

Petrol

Slightly less powerful but much easier to use and maintain. Convenient self-priming pull start gets you going quickly.

Skill Level

Look for models suited to your current skill level:

Beginner

RTR (ready-to-run) models with slower speeds and simple maintenance. Meant for first-time users.

Intermediate

Faster vehicles with tuning options for more experienced RC drivers looking to enhance performance.

Advanced

Highly customizable racing-oriented models for expert hobbyists to tweak and modify. Require advanced mechanical skills.

Budget

Gas RC prices range from under $200 for basic ready-to-run buggies to $500+ for high-end racing truggies. Make sure to factor in the cost of fuel, tools, spares, and accessories as well.

This covers the key considerations when selecting a gas powered RC vehicle. Next, let’s look at some top models on the market right now in the various categories.

Top Gas Powered RC Cars

Here are five of the best gas RC cars spanning different vehicle types and skill levels:

Traxxas E-Revo 2.0

With a roar that matches its looks, the E-Revo 2.0 is a top-selling nitro monster truck perfect for backyard bashing. Its TQi radio system with Traxxas Stability Management provides smooth, predictable handling. Beefy suspension and wide stance absorb big jumps with ease. Fun scale details like LED lights, horn, and rear hitch.

Losi LST XXL-2

This big, burly 1/8 scale nitro truck delivers massive power slides and sick backflips. Its rear-mounted XXL engine has incredible torque to muscle through any terrain or pull giant wheelies. Heavy duty parts withstand hardcore abuse. Includes AVC stability control. Intermediate skill level.

Arrma Kraton 6S BLX

A high-speed petrol-powered speed demon, the Kraton 6S BLX reaches blistering speeds over 50mph. Large tires on 15″ wheels provide loads of ground clearance, while long-travel suspension smoothes out rough runs. Waterproof electronics for wet weather driving. Advanced skill level.

Redcat Racing Volcano EPX Pro

A more affordable ready-to-run petrol truck great for newbies. Simple pull-start 8000 engine provides decent speed and runtimes. Tough tubular chassis handles crashes and rollovers. Upgrade parts available to boost capabilities over time as skills develop.

Team Associated RC10GT

This 1/8 scale nitro buggy is ideal for serious racers. Optimized suspension geometry and weight balance allow razor sharp handling and responsiveness on the track. Highly adjustable settings to dial in for any conditions. Designed for competition-level durability and serviceability.

This covers some of the most popular gas RC options across nitro and petrol engines. With many more top models from Traxxas, Losi, HPI, and others, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.

Now that you’ve selected the ideal gas RC car, let’s look at how to keep it running strong once you start driving.

Maintaining Your Gas Powered RC Car

While gas RC cars require some additional maintenance compared to electrics, it’s not difficult with practice. Here are some key areas to stay on top of:

Fuel and Oil

Use only fresh high-quality fuel designed specifically for RC nitro engines. Replace the fuel filter periodically. Use after-run oil to lubricate the engine after running it.

Engine Tuning and Break-In

Establish proper carburetor settings and gear mesh. Carefully break-in a new engine as per instructions to seat components. Make tuning adjustments to optimize performance.

Cleaning and Inspection

Keep the chassis, wheels, and moving parts clean of dirt, grime, and debris. Inspect for loose or damaged components before and after runs. Check for engine leaks.

Replacement Parts

Expect to replace consumable parts like air filters, glow plugs, and clutch shoes periodically. Have spare parts like pull starters, wheels, and shocks on hand for repairs.

Taking the time to properly maintain your gas RC car will help it deliver miles of trouble-free enjoyment. Just be sure to read the manual and watch tutorial videos for your specific model.

Now let’s briefly compare gas and electric power.

Gas vs Electric RC Cars

While detailed comparisons could fill an entire separate guide, here is a quick high-level look at how gas and electric RC cars stack up:

Gas

• More power and speed
• Longer run times
• Louder, more realistic sound
• More tuning and maintenance required

Electric

• Quieter operation
• Simple plug-and-play convenience
• Short recharge times
• Less maintenance
• Better suited for indoor use

For maximum authenticity and outdoor driving thrills, gas models are hard to beat. But electrics offer excellent mid-range speed and technical performance with less hassle. There are fantastic options in both categories – choose based on your needs.

Conclusion

Gas powered RC cars provide an unparalleled mix of sound, speed, and realism that electric models cannot match. With nitro or petrol engines that churn out intense horsepower for up to 45 minutes per tank, they are incredible fun for backyard bashing or track racing.

Carefully consider the vehicle type, engine, skill level required, and your budget when choosing your ideal gas RC. Maintain it properly with quality fuel, scheduled engine service, part replacements, and cleaning.

While electrics have their benefits too, the visceral sensations of guiding a snarling, high-speed gas RC through jumps, turns, and stunts creates an incredible experience for the discerning RC enthusiast. With the models profiled above, you’re sure to find your perfect match.

Now get out there, start up that engine, and have a blast with your new gas-powered speed demon! The open road and untamed terrain awaits.