Traxxas Beginner's Guide to Good Starter Cars

If you've been searching for good starter cars, then you're in luck. Continue reading our helpful Traxxas beginner's guide to find the perfect RC car.

Looking to join a hobby that has had a faithful following for over 50 years? The first remote control cars struggled with power supply and needed a tether.

It wasn't until the 1960s when batteries broke the tether need. Over the last 50 years, technology has given RC models the ability to get lighter and faster.

Gone are the days of limited distance and speed. Expert level cars can reach speeds of 40 mph. As a beginner though you need to start with something a bit slower.

We' are here to help you get started with what to look for in your first car. In the end, we'll give you two models that make good starter cars.

The Best RC Car Kits

When deciding between different RC car kits, you need to consider four qualities: price, durability, modability, and style. The best car for you may not be the best car for someone else.

Price

As a beginner, you may not want to invest in the top of the line car. You can always modify or upgrade as you gain experience and skill.

Don't go for the cheapest option either. These cars are not well built, and you'll spend more fixing it in the long run.

Durability

You will want a car that is durable to handle the terrain and your beginner driving skills. You will make mistakes as a beginner, so buy a car that will withstand them.

Modability

Look for a car that works well right out of the box. This will get you going right away. A car you can mod will let you upgrade in phases as your budget and skills allow.

Ready to run

These cars are ready to run right out of the box. The only thing you may need to do is buy batteries. This lets you learn about mechanics and operation through use.

Almost Ready to Run

For ARR cars the majority of the work is already done for you. You just need to do minor work like buy a separate battery pack or paint the car.

Build it yourself

If you are a DIY type of person, you may want to build your car. Just know that most kits require you buy extra parts in addition to the kit.

It is best for you to wait on these until you have experience with RC cars. You will get more knowledgeable as you fix and upgrade your car.

Style

What style of RC car are you looking for? You have the option of trucks, cars, or buggies.

Cars

A car might be your model of choice if you are looking for speed, drifting, and rally. They work best on flat, smooth surfaces. They won't be much fun on off-roading trips.

Trucks

Trucks are great for traversing the off-road. You have two options to choose from, stadium and monster trucks.

Monster trucks excel at dirty off-road adventures. They are made to be highly durable withstanding mud and getting hit.

Stadium trucks handle the dirt well, but you should stick to indoor courses. They are not as good as monster trucks on the outdoor terrain.

Both models have big tires and exposed suspension. Their design makes them stable and fun for racing.

Buggies

If you aren't sure what style you want, get a buddy. They are a great overall RC car combining the qualities of the car and truck.

They can compete with the cars on the road. With the right user, they can get quite fast.

Unlike cars, they also excel off-road. They have big exposed shocks like the truck. This makes them ideal for grass and gravel terrain.

Traxxas Skill Level Guide

Traxxas makes it easy to get started with radio control cars by giving each car a rating. Those in the Traxxas forum recommend paying attention to the number rating of 1 through 10.

Beginner Levels

Levels 1 and 2 are perfect for someone who has minimal or no previous experience with radio controlled models. These cars don't require a lot of setup or maintenance.

Levels 3 and 4 are suitable for someone who has previous experience. These are good for someone who is getting started but has some familiarity and experience.

These cars take lots of effort for setup and maintenance. You'll also notice they are capable of higher speeds and faster acceleration.

Advanced Levels

As a beginner, you should avoid buying a car of skill level 5, 6, or 10. These are all expert level cars meant for users who have experience with nitro-powered models.

Level 6 cars use LiPo batteries which require knowledge and experience for safe operation. Level 10 cars are high-powered capable of extreme acceleration and speed.

Good Starter Cars For Beginners

We suggest the Traxxas Ford GT and Stampede as great beginner models. The Ford GT is perfect for those who want a car, while the Stampede satisfies those who want a truck.

Traxxas Ford GT AWD Supercar

If you know you want a car we recommend the Traxxas Ford GT. Traxxas brings the beautiful styling of the real car to the model. This ready to run out of the box model will have your flying with its Titan 12T 550 motor.

Traxxas Stampede

This is one of the most rugged and durable monster trucks on the market. It comes with a modified motor and wiring, so it is completely waterproof.

You'll be out there running in no time as it's ready to run right out of the box. To make it even more fun, the battery lasts a comparably long time.

Wrap Up

When buying your first RC model consider price, durability, modability, and style. Good starter cars are affordable without being a large investment.

Your first car should be durable, so you spend more time using it and less time fixing it. It is easiest for you to buy a ready to use model over the one you need to put together.

Your final consideration is to pick the style of the model you want. You can buy a car, truck, or buggy. The car is great for flat hard surfaces while the truck is perfect for off-road adventures.

If you are unsure what you want, a buggy is a great all-around model. These models have the speed of the cars but can handle the off-road like the trucks.