Mitsubishi evo rc car body
Unleashing the Beast: A Comprehensive Guide to Mitsubishi Evo RC Car Bodies
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, a legendary name synonymous with rally racing dominance and aggressive styling, has captured the hearts of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Now, this iconic vehicle’s legacy lives on in the world of RC cars, where dedicated enthusiasts can experience the thrill of piloting a miniature version of this automotive icon. For many RC enthusiasts, the body is more than just a shell. It’s an expression of their passion, a statement of their racing style, and a window into the world of the iconic Mitsubishi Evo.
This comprehensive guide delves into the multifaceted world of Mitsubishi Evo RC car bodies, offering a deep dive into their history, design, materials, and the factors to consider when choosing the perfect body for your racing needs.
## The Rise of the Evo in RC Racing
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution’s impact on the world of RC racing is undeniable. Its sleek, aerodynamic design, aggressive lines, and iconic rally heritage have made it a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking a body that embodies both performance and style.
The Evo’s journey into the RC world began with manufacturers like HPI Racing, Kyosho, and Tamiya, who saw the potential of this legendary car to captivate a vast audience. These early models, often based on the iconic Evo VI and Evo IX, set the stage for the development of a diverse range of Evo RC car bodies that would cater to various driving styles and racing disciplines.
## Evo RC Car Bodies: A World of Options
The world of Evo RC car bodies is a diverse one, offering a plethora of choices for any enthusiast, from the casual backyard racer to the hardcore competitive driver. To navigate this exciting landscape, it’s helpful to understand the different types of Evo bodies available and their unique characteristics.
1. Scale Bodies: Capturing the Essence of the Evo
Scale bodies, as the name suggests, prioritize capturing the authentic look and feel of their real-world counterparts. They are meticulously crafted to replicate the iconic lines, proportions, and details of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, right down to the intricate badges, vents, and spoilers.
Scale bodies are a popular choice among enthusiasts who cherish the aesthetics of the Evo and want their RC car to be a faithful representation of the real deal. They offer a sense of realism and allow drivers to immerse themselves in the Evo’s legacy.
Popular Scale Body Manufacturers:
* **HPI Racing:** Known for their high-quality, detailed scale bodies, capturing the essence of the Evo VI, Evo IX, and other iconic models.
* **Kyosho:** Renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and realistic scale bodies, featuring accurate replicas of the Evo VI and Evo VIII.
* **Tamiya:** A legendary name in the RC world, offering nostalgic scale bodies based on the Evo VI, capturing the classic look and feel of the iconic car.
2. Performance Bodies: Unleashing Maximum Speed and Control
Performance bodies prioritize aerodynamics and efficiency over pure scale accuracy. They might feature exaggerated spoilers, aggressive diffusers, and aerodynamically optimized curves to maximize downforce and reduce drag. This design philosophy enables drivers to achieve higher speeds, better handling, and improved stability, especially at high speeds.
Performance bodies are popular among competitive racers who prioritize performance above all else. They are designed to cut through the air with minimal resistance, providing a clear advantage on the track.
Key Features of Performance Bodies:
* **Large rear spoilers:** Generate downforce to improve stability and traction at high speeds.
* **Aggressive diffusers:** Minimize underbody drag and enhance airflow for improved stability.
* **Aerodynamic bodylines:** Streamlined curves and contours reduce air resistance for faster speeds.
3. Custom Bodies: Expressing Your Individual Style
The world of RC car bodies isn’t defined by rigid boundaries. Enthusiasts have access to a plethora of customization options, allowing them to create unique bodies tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
Custom bodies can be built from scratch, modified from existing shells, or painted and decorated to achieve a personalized look. This freedom of expression enables drivers to transform their Evo into a personal masterpiece, reflecting their unique style and racing ambitions.
Popular Customization Options:
* **Body kits:** Available in various materials, such as Lexan, ABS, and fiberglass, offering a wide range of design possibilities.
* **Custom paint jobs:** Transform your Evo with vibrant colors, intricate designs, and captivating graphics.
* **Decals and stickers:** Add a personal touch with custom graphics, logos, and racing numbers.
## The Material Advantage: Exploring Evo RC Body Options
The material used to construct an Evo RC car body plays a crucial role in its performance, durability, and aesthetics. Understanding the characteristics of different materials will help you make an informed decision when choosing the ideal body for your needs.
1. Lexan: The Industry Standard
Lexan, a type of polycarbonate plastic, is a ubiquitous material in the world of RC car bodies. Its inherent strength, flexibility, and resilience make it the preferred choice for enthusiasts seeking a combination of durability and lightweight design.
Lexan bodies are easily repairable, capable of withstanding minor impacts without significant damage. This characteristic is crucial for drivers who want to push their limits without the constant worry of a shattered body.
Advantages of Lexan Bodies:
* **High impact resistance:** Can withstand crashes and bumps, minimizing damage.
* **Light weight:** Improves acceleration and handling.
* **Flexible:** Allows for easier shaping and customization.
* **Easy to repair:** Can be patched and glued back together after minor damage.
2. ABS Plastic: A Durable and Cost-Effective Choice
Acrylonitrile butadine styrene (ABS) is another popular material for RC car bodies, offering a balance of durability and affordability. While ABS isn’t as impact-resistant as Lexan, it holds its own in moderate impacts and is particularly well-suited for cars used in less aggressive driving environments.
ABS bodies are often favoured by beginners or casual hobbyists who prioritize affordability without compromising on durability. They also offer a smooth, consistent finish, making them ideal for detailed paint jobs.
Advantages of ABS Bodies:
* **Durable:** Can withstand moderate impacts.
* **Cost-effective:** Offers a balance of performance and affordability.
* **Smooth finish:** Ideal for intricate paint jobs.
3. Fiberglass: Building for Strength and Longevity
Fiberglass, a composite material known for its exceptional strength and durability, is used for building high-performance RC car bodies that can endure even the most demanding racing conditions. It offers superior stiffness and impact resistance, making it ideal for drivers pushing the boundaries of performance.
Fiberglass bodies are heavier than Lexan or ABS, but their increased weight can actually improve traction and stability, particularly on rough terrain.
Advantages of Fiberglass Bodies:
* **Extreme durability:** Can withstand severe impacts.
* **High stiffness:** Improves handling and stability.
* **Resistance to warping:** Maintains shape under stress.
## Choosing the Right Evo RC Body: A Guide to Your Perfect Match
Selecting the right Evo RC car body is a crucial step in optimizing your racing experience. Your choice depends on a variety of factors, including your driving style, racing environment, and personal preferences.
1. Driving Style: Aggressive or Casual
Your driving style heavily influences your body choice. If you’re an aggressive racer who pushes the limits, a durable fiberglass body or a high-impact Lexan shell might be ideal. If you prefer a more casual approach, a durable ABS body or a well-protected Lexan body can meet your needs.
2. Racing Environment: Track or Backyard
The type of environment you race in impacts the body’s durability and performance. For high-speed track racing, a performance-oriented Lexan body with aerodynamic features is a wise choice. For backyard racing, a durable ABS body or a sturdy Lexan body can handle the occasional bump or scrape.
3. Personal Preferences: Scale or Performance
Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal preferences. Do you prioritize the authentic scale look and feel? If so, a detailed Evo scale body should be your primary choice. Are you more focused on performance and aerodynamics? Opt for a performance-oriented body with aggressive features.
## Beyond the Shell: Enhancing Your Evo Body Experience
The Evo RC car body is more than just a protective shell; it’s a canvas for creativity and a gateway to enhancing your racing experience. Here are some ways to elevate your Evo body to the next level.
1. Paint and Graphics: Expressing Your Style
Painting your Evo body allows you to unleash your creativity and personalize your RC car. From vibrant colors to intricate designs, the possibilities are endless. Consider using high-quality polycarbonate paints designed specifically for RC bodies.
Tips for Painting Your Evo Body:
* **Clean the surface:** Remove any dirt, dust, or oils before applying paint.
* **Use a primer:** Provides a smooth, even base for the paint.
* **Apply thin coats:** Multiple thin layers are better than one thick layer.
* **Allow for drying time:** Ensure each layer dries completely before applying the next.
* **Use a clear coat:** Protects the paint and adds a glossy finish.
