Where to Buy RC Drift Cars: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you interested in the thrilling world of drift racing? Maybe you’ve attended events, watched videos, or even played video games that feature drift racing. And now, you’re thinking about getting into it yourself by purchasing an RC drift car. But, where can you buy an RC drift car? In today’s world, you have a lot of options available to you. Whether you prefer online shopping or the in-person experience of visiting a hobby shop, there are stores that cater to your needs. Moreover, some big-box stores are offering RC cars, including drift cars, in their toy sections. The vast selection and different prices might be overwhelming at first glance, but don’t worry. With a bit of research, you’ll find a drift car that suits both your budget and personality. But before you buy, here’s what you need to know about where to buy an RC drift car.
Online Stores
Hobby Shops:
- Offer wide range of products from different manufacturers
- Provide excellent customer service and specialized knowledge
- Some may offer free shipping or discounts during sales events
- Examples of online hobby shops include Tower Hobbies and Horizon Hobby.
Specialized RC Drift Car Websites:
- Offer wide range of products specifically for RC drift cars
- Often have more in-depth information on the cars they carry
- Some may offer RC drift cars that are customized
- Some may also offer discounts to frequent customers or first-time buyers
- Examples of specialized RC drift car websites include RCMart and RC Drift Car Shop.
Amazon and eBay:
- Offer vast selections of products from a variety of sellers
- Provide convenience and affordability
- Offer free shipping and returns, depending on the seller
- Allow you to compare prices and products from different sellers comfortably
- Some sellers may offer warranties or returns for faulty products
When it comes to online shopping for RC drift cars, keep in mind that purchasing from reliable and well-established companies and sellers is key to avoid headaches and possible scams.
What do hobby shops have?
At hobby shops, you can find a variety of supplies and materials related to different interests and pastimes. Some common items that you may find at a hobby shop are:
- Art supplies such as paints, brushes, canvases, and drawing tools
- Model kits for cars, planes, ships, and other vehicles
- Craft kits for sewing, knitting, crocheting, and other textile-based hobbies
- Collectibles such as cards, figurines, and memorabilia related to popular franchises like Star Wars or Marvel
- Board and tabletop games for all ages and interests
- Remote control vehicles and parts for building and customizing them
Some hobby shops may specialize in certain areas, such as model trains or radio-controlled aircraft. Visiting local hobby shops is a great way to learn about a new hobby or expand your collection for an existing one.
Local Hobby Shops
Buying from hobby shops has its advantages, including access to in-person help and support. Local hobby stores may have a smaller supply of RC drift cars than online stores, but the selection they offer is still worth checking out. Here are some advantages of buying from local hobby shops:
- Ability to test the product before buying it
- Provides you with an opportunity to ask experienced professionals questions
- Allows you to support small businesses in your community
- Offers a chance to engage with the local RC drift racing community, meet new people and attend nearby events
Here are some popular local hobby shops for RC drift cars:
| Name of the Shop | Location | Specializations |
|---|---|---|
| Brookhurst Hobbies | Garden Grove, California | RC drift cars, helicopters, and planes |
| RC Toy Store | Plano, Texas | RC drift cars, planes, and boats |
| Savage Totemic Hobbies | Portland, Oregon | RC cars, including drift cars, boats, and model airplanes |
Keep in mind that it’s essential to call and check the availability of the products you are interested in before heading to a local hobby shop. Some may require appointments in advance before visiting.
Is RC cars a hobby?
Yes, RC (radio-controlled) cars are a hobby enjoyed by many enthusiasts worldwide. Here are some reasons why:
- RC cars can be customized and upgraded to improve performance or to simply stand out from the crowd.
- RC cars can be raced on tracks or off-road, providing a thrilling experience for both the driver and spectators.
- RC cars come in various sizes, from miniature to large-scale, and can be powered by electric, nitro or gas engines.
- RC car communities exist online and offline, where members can share their experiences, tips, and have fun together.
If you are interested in starting your own RC car hobby, websites like Horizon Hobby and RC Superstore offer a wide range of products and information to get you started.
Big Box Stores
If you prefer to see and touch the products you are interested in purchasing, big-box stores can be a go-to destination. While the selection of RC drift cars may not be as abundant as in online or specific hobby shops, you can still find some quality models. Here are some popular big box retailers that carry RC drift cars:
- Walmart
- Target
- Barnes & Noble
- Best Buy
It’s best to use their online stores to check the local availability of RC drift cars before heading to the store. Keep in mind that the selection and stock may differ from stores’ physical locations to their websites. Also, keep in mind that these stores may lack the same level of expertise and support as hobby shops.
Can any RC car be a drift car?
No, not every RC car can be a drift car. The design of the car plays a big role in whether it can drift or not. Cars that have a high center of gravity, narrow tires, and lack of power are not suitable for drifting.
The following are the features that an RC car should have to perform as a drift car:
- Low center of gravity
- Wide tires
- Powerful motor
- Rear-wheel drive
- Adjustable suspension
If you are interested in purchasing an RC car that is specifically designed for drifting, you can check out websites such as HPI Racing, Tamiya USA, and Yokomo.
Considerations
Before purchasing an RC drift car, it’s essential to consider various factors that can affect your choice. These include:
Price
- RC drift cars range in price from less than $100 to over $500 depending on the manufacturer and the level of customization.
- If you’re starting or unsure if it’s the hobby for you, consider getting a more affordable model before moving on to a more advanced version.
Manufacturer
- There are several manufacturers of RC drift cars, including HPI Racing, Yokomo, MST, Tamiya, and more.
- Research the brand beforehand to know which companies produce high-quality cars and which are better geared for certain levels of expertise.
Size
- Make sure to check the actual dimensions of the car to ensure it fits in the venue or track you’re planning to race at.
- Choose a car suitable for both indoor and outdoor racing, depending on your preference.
Customization Options
- If you’re looking to modify or upgrade your RC drift car, consider purchasing a model that has various customization options available.
- The brand may offer specialized parts, such as tires, motors, or batteries, that can enhance your car’s performance.
What is the cheapest drift car in the world?
If you’re on a budget and looking for a cheap drift car, there are a few options available. Here are some of the cheapest drift cars in the world:
- Nissan 240SX/Silvia
- Mazda RX-8
- Toyota Corolla AE86
- BMW E36
- Ford Mustang Fox Body
While these cars might not have the high-end, premium materials and performance of more expensive cars, they offer plenty of potential for drifting and can be modified and upgraded to improve their performance. Keep in mind that the cost of modifications and upgrades can quickly add up, so budget accordingly.
There are also websites and forums dedicated to budget drifting, where you can find tips and advice on how to get started with a cheap drift car. Some popular options include Drifted.com and Driftworks.com.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding an RC drift car is not difficult with many retailers and stores selling them. Online and local hobby shops offer a variety of RC drift cars, provide expert advice, and sometimes host racing events. Big box stores like Walmart and Target offer affordability and convenience when purchasing an RC drift car. Before purchasing, consider the price, manufacturer, size, and customization options of the car that aligns with your interests, level of expertise, and budget. Be sure to do some research and compare prices from various stores to ensure you get a quality product that satisfies your needs. With the right RC drift car in hand, you can join the drifting community and start enjoying the thrill of the race.
