Gas vs Electric R/C Cars

Gas and electric powered radio control cars are both fun but are very different. Here are some side by side photos and comparison of on-road touring cars in electric and gas (i.e  nitro) models.


Here I am using the term gas and nitro interchangeably as when we talk about gas rc cars we commonly mean kits with nitro powered engines.

Comparison and Evaluation (Nitro or Electric?)

Below is a summary of the differences between a 1/10 scale on-road gas / nitro and electric rc car. Hope this helps you make an informed decision before choosing a model.

Criteria	Gas / Nitro	Electric
Playtime	X	-
Realism	X	-
Ease of use	-	X
Ease of maintenance	-	X
Speed	Tie	Tie
Cost	-	X

If you are new to the hobby, highly recommended is to start with an electric kit. These are simpler and easier to run. Plus speeds are more manageable for beginners.
Nitro is loud and fast out of the box. You will need a place that allows the noise and fumes of a gas rc car. Tuning a nitro engine requires advanced hobbyist skills. But if long playtime and realism is what you need, then nothing beats gas / nitro powered remote control cars.
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