Model scale
The scale allows you to estimate the overall dimensions of the model — it describes the ratio of its dimensions to the dimensions of a full-size machine of a similar type (see below). For example, the length and width of a full-sized buggy average about 4 m and 2 m, respectively; this means that for a radio-controlled model on a scale of
1:10, these parameters will be 10 times smaller — about 40 cm and 20 cm (plus or minus).
Miniature scales are considered to be
1:24 or less (
1:28 and
1:32), while in the largest scales it reaches
1:6(
1:5) — such models are not much smaller than children's cars (however, they are not intended to replace them). A small size is considered optimal for use in residential areas, a large one — in open areas. Most road models (see 'Type') are available in 1:10 scale, SUVs in
1:8, and larger scales are found in advanced internal combustion engine models (see 'Engine'). The most common scale options are
1:14,
1:16 and
1:18, which are found in both the low-cost and high-end segments.
Motor model
The name of the engine installed in the machine. Usually, knowing this name, you can easily find information about the features of the engine — both official manufacturer data and reviews from users — and determine how much you are satisfied with its characteristics. This can be very important when choosing a model for professional motorsports.
In addition to the name, this paragraph can also specify the type of electric motor (see "Engine") installed in the machine — collector or brushless.
The collector design of the electric motor can be called classical. It allows you to create fairly light, compact, inexpensive motors, which are also easily repaired. The disadvantages of this option are relatively low efficiency, a tendency to spark (especially when overheated), as well as less durability than brushless models. In addition, with a collector motor, it is more difficult to ensure high speed. As a result, this option is typical for entry-level and middle-level models (relatively slow).
Brushless motors are considered more advanced than brushed motors: they are more powerful, more economical, more durable, better protected from pollution and well suited for overclocking to high speeds. On the other hand, such engines are much more expensive, and the complexity of the design does not allow you to repair the motor on your own. In light of all this, brushless motors are used primarily in advanced high-speed cars; the presence of such a motor is an ind...icator of a rather high class model.
Some models of radio-controlled cars can be produced in two versions, differing only in the type of electric motor.
Battery capacity
The capacity of the battery supplied with the electric motor model (see "Motor"). Indicated only for variants using original batteries (see "Battery type"), measured in ampere-hours: 1 Ah corresponds to the capacity at which the battery is capable of delivering a current of 1 A for 1 hour.
The higher the capacity of the battery, the longer, usually, the “device” is able to work without recharging. However, the practical time of operation on a charge is largely determined by other characteristics of the machine — scale, purpose (see both points above), weight, model and engine power, etc. Therefore, in most cases, this parameter plays a purely reference role, and it is only possible to compare the battery capacity among themselves with machines that do not have any significant differences in other characteristics.
Base length
The wheelbase length is the distance between the front and rear axles of the car. This parameter determines a number of features of the behavior of the model in motion. So, a longer base provides stability during acceleration and predictability when cornering; in turn, a shorter one provides better cross-country ability, manoeuvrability and controllability in a skid. Of course, only models of the same type and scale can be compared with each other in terms of wheelbase length (see both points above); and this parameter is of key importance only for professional automodel sports.
Ground clearance (ride height)
Ground clearance, or ground clearance, is the distance from the lowest point of the car body to the road surface. Large ground clearance is important for off-road models (buggies, truggies, "monsters", see "Type"): it increases the cross-country ability in general and allows you to overcome individual point obstacles (for example, pebbles), simply passing them under the bottom. In turn, models for high-speed driving on a flat surface (for example, circuit racing) have a small clearance to reduce aerodynamic drag.
It is possible to compare different models by clearance only within the same scale (see above).
