7 Best RC Sports Cars of 2019
This guide looks at how to choose the best RC sports cars. Remote control vehicles are more popular today than they’ve ever been. That’s because they have incredible attention to details, powerful functions, and affordable price tags. All radio-controlled models have an educational element to them as well. They can help to develop a child’s mental, physical, and socialization skills.
Teenagers and adults get as much fun out of RC sports cars as toddlers and pre-teens. That’s why there are so many models to choose from aimed at different age groups and skill levels. The handpicked models on this page cater to all ages, needs, and user expectations.
| Budget |
|---|
 |
| RC Lamborghini Aventador |
| 4.6/5.0 |
| Scale: 1:18 |
| Weight: 20.8 ounces |
| Perfect entry-level RC car, easy to control, rubber-like tires, LED lights. |
| Check Amazon |
| Best Value |
|---|
 |
| RASTAR RC Ferrari 458 |
| 4.7/5.0 |
| Scale: 1:14 |
| Weight: 32 ounces |
| Ready to run (RTR), full functions, independent suspension, rubber tires, LEDs. |
| Check Amazon |
| Top Pick |
|---|
 |
| RC Italia Sports Car |
| 4.8/5.0 |
| Scale: 1:16 |
| Weight: 49 ounces |
| Eye-catching, luxurious, futuristic design, LED lights, fast, batteries included. |
| Check Amazon |
Best RC Sports Car for What?
If you were to ask me what the best RC sports car was my answer would be, for what purpose? Or, if you asked me if such and such a model was the best RC car, I may say, compared to what? These are broad questions, and there are no single answers. It’s also why I suggest new buyers make a simple checklist of wants and needs before they read the reviews.
RC Cars Checklist Part 1
Knowing what you want—specifically—is the only way to make better buying decisions. Below are a few areas to consider. These apply whether the RC sports car is for you or as a gift for someone else:
- Age? Most makers have a ‘recommended’ age for their products
- Skill level or experience
- Your maximum budget
- Does it need to drive outdoors (multi-terrain capable)?
- Is it for racing or just driving enjoyment
RC Cars Checklist Part 2
The second part of the list has 7 points that apply to everyone regardless of the above answers:
- Build and size (scale) requirements (see below)
- Features and functions that are important to YOU
- Speed potential if it’s for racing
- Maximum running time or battery life
- Battery charging times
- Cost of extra batteries and availability of spare parts
- Maximum control range
That should be enough to get you thinking. Add any personal items to the list as you see fit. Read a few reviews first if you’re unsure what features you want or need. And experienced hobbyists may want to think about motors, ESCs, and customizable potential, etc.
Understanding Model Scales
A scale model is a physical copy of the represented vehicle. RC cars are smaller than the real thing, which is what the model compares to. A common newbie mistake is to ignore the scale of a model RC car. You can see either delight or despondency in customer comments. People often complain that the vehicle was much bigger or smaller than they thought.
It’s an avoidable blunder as all RC cars makers state the model’s scale in the description. So, what does it all mean? Let’s use a 1:14 scale as an example. The first ‘1’ tells us that 1 inch of the model is equal to 14 inches (second number) on the real-world car. The higher the second number, the smaller the model is. Sellers don’t usually show their models next to human hands as it weakens the ads.
Racing RC Sports Cars
Most flashy RC sports car users want to pose rather than race. Racing models usually fit into the Desert Buggy, Drift, and Streetcar categories. Consider other features if you do want to compete, though. They include things like weight, materials, crash-resistance, and suspensions systems, etc.
About this RC Sports Car Guide
The RC sports car picks on this page are the result of personal research. Real user feedback and the opinions of industry experts helped in the final decision making. The first three sports models are Best Budget, Best Value, and the Top pick. The reviews below those are by price order starting with the least expensive first. The table here gives a snapshot of these 7 favorite models.
RC Sports Cars Comparison Table
| Make and Model | Scale | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| QUN FENG RC Lamborghini Aventador Sports Car | 1:18 | 20.8 ounces | Check Price |
| RASTAR RC Ferrari 458 Special A Sports Car | 1:14 | 32 ounces | Check Price |
| SHARPER IMAGE Radio Controlled Italia Sports | 1:16 | 49 ounces | Check Price |
| Red Lamborghini Veneno RC Sport Racing Car | 1:24 | 9.9 ounces | Check Price |
| Midea Techchevrolet Corvette Z06 RC Sport Car | 1:18 | 8 ounces | Check Price |
| Force1 High-Speed Gravity Defying RC Sports Car | N/A | 9.6 ounces | Check Price |
| Super GT RC Sport Racing RC Drift Car | 1:16 | 19.2 ounces | Check Price |
1. QUN FENG RC Lamborghini Aventador | Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
The radio-controlled Lamborghini Aventador replica makes the Best Budget Pick. It’s a vibrant 1:18 scale model that’s ready to run (RTR) right out of the box.
- Best feature 1: Excellent value w/ durable build
- Best feature 2: Impressive details
- Plus points: Perfect entry-level RC car, easy to control, rubber-like tires, LED lights
- Minus points: Power hungry, only runs on smooth surfaces
RC Lamborghini Aventador Main Attractions
Lamborghini’s Aventador is a superb first RC car. The vibrant colors and fine details are impressive for a budget-level model. It’s also sturdy (crash-resistant) which adds to its value and appeal as a kid’s plaything. The modest controller and low-profile tires make it easy to handle up to speeds of 10 mph and a 40m range. The front and rear LED headlamps and taillights help bring this sporty car to life.
The Not So Good
The sports car needs a total of 6 AA batteries (not included) to run. That’s normal for an RC model, but this one does tend to be power-hungry. It’s wise for parents to invest in rechargeables if they don’t already have them. Another minus is the model needs smooth surfaces to run. That means it’s not going to work on carpeted floors inside or soft surfaces outdoors.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model Scale: 1:18 |
| Makers recommended age: 8+ years |
| Dimensions: 13 x 5.8 x 4.9” |
| Product Weight: 20.8 oz. |
| Max Range: 131 ft. (40 meters) |
| Battery: 4 x AA |
| Running time: Depends on batteries (not included) |
| Charging time: N/A |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Perfect entry-level model car |
| Easy to control |
| Excellent value |
| Durable, crash-resistant toy |
| Impressive details |
| Rubber-like low-profile tires |
| Bright front & rear LED lights |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Power hungry |
| Only runs on smooth surfaces |
2. RASTAR Ferrari 458 Special A Sports Car | Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
Meet the Ferrari 458 Special A. It’s our Best Value sports car with heaps of bling. This ready-to-run (RTR) model guarantees to entice a ‘WOW’ from any youngster who unboxes it.
- Best feature 1: Convertible remote-controlled hard top
- Best feature 2: High attention to details inside and out
- Plus points: Ready to run (RTR), full functions, independent suspension, rubber tires, LEDs
- Minus points: No batteries included, can’t use rechargeables
RC RASTAR Ferrari 458 Main Attractions
The RASTAR Ferrari 458 is an easy to operate sports car even for first-time RC’ers. One of the main attractions is its remote-controlled convertible hard top. That’s as welcome in the model as it is the Real McCoy. The attention to interior and exterior details are incredible for this sports car. And the injection molded ABS plastic provides the vehicle with a robust body and a beautiful glossy finish.
Driving the car is a cinch thanks to its steering-wheel style controller. The forward, reverse, turn left, turn right, and stop controls are all self-explanatory. The vehicle has a 4-wheel independent suspension system, differential gears, and soft rubber tires. The bright front and rear LED lights make the car even more flashy and enjoyable to drive in low light.
You can expect a control range for the RASTAR Ferrari 458 of around 98 feet. The car’s top speed reaches about 10 mph which is average for a toy in its class.
The Not So Good
There are two downsides to this otherwise spectacular model, and they’re both battery related. It’s a higher priced model, yet it doesn’t include the five batteries needed to run it. Furthermore, it can’t accept rechargeables which makes it expensive with regular use.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model Scale: 1:14 |
| Makers recommended age: 8+ years |
| Dimensions: 12.8 x 6.4 x 3.5” |
| Product Weight: 32 oz. |
| Max Range: 98 ft. (30 meters) |
| Battery: 5 AAs (not included) |
| Running time: 60+ minutes |
| Charging time: N/A |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Convertible RC hard top |
| High attention to details |
| Ready to run (RTR) |
| Full dive functions |
| Independent suspension system |
| Rubber tires |
| Bright front & rear LEDs |
| The Cons |
|---|
| No batteries included |
| Can’t use rechargeables |
3. SHARPER IMAGE RC Italia Sports Car | Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
It’s easy to see why the RC Italia Sports Car has made the Top Pick. The model has an out-of-this-world futuristic style that adds a real wow factor to the car.
- Best feature 1: Built-in front-facing FPV camera
- Best feature 2: Virtual Reality (VR) headset
- Plus points: Eye-catching, luxurious, futuristic design, LED lights, fast, batteries included
- Minus points: Quite expensive, small for the money
RC Italia Sports Car Main Attractions
The RC Italia is a European-inspired model with an eye-catching, luxurious, futuristic design. The details are incredible. It has a smooth color-accented sleek body with built-in working head and tail lights. And the fast 80 mph scaled speed shifts the vehicle in a manner that’s fitting with its reputation. The RC Italia comes with a joypad-style remote control (RC) that’s super-easy to use.
The Virtual Driving Seat
The standout feature of this sporty model is its built-in front-facing camera. The First Person View (FPV) puts the person into the virtual racing seat. That means the user sees what the camera sees in real time. It’s no ordinary high-speed FPV experience either. It comes with a VR headset that gives drivers the ultimate immersive experience.
It’s also possible to save and download your racing adventures and play them back later. That can be handy if you want to review your driving skills and learn by any mistakes. This sports car includes rechargeable batteries, and that’s not something most makers provide.
The Not So Good
The cost of this model is quite high compared to others on this page. It’s excellent value, but only for those who want the First Person View experience it offers. There are less expensive options if you just need an RC car without FPV camera capability. The smaller 1/16 scale size surprises some new owners going by the reviews. Scale size is something buyers overlooked all too often.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model Scale: 1:16 |
| Makers recommended age: 4+ years |
| Dimensions: 17.3 x 8.1 x 7.7 |
| Shipping Weight: 49 oz. |
| Max Range: Not specified |
| Battery: Not specified (included) |
| Running time: Not specified |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Built-in front-facing FPV camera |
| Included Virtual Reality headset |
| Easy to operate at beginner level |
| Eye-catching futuristic design |
| Working LED head and taillights |
| Fast 80 mph scaled speed |
| Includes rechargeable batteries |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Quite expensive |
| Small scale for the money |
4. Red Lamborghini Veneno RC Sports Racing Car
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5
There’s something alluring about red sports cars. The Lamborghini Veneno wouldn’t look right with any other color. This flashy replica has an eye-catching aerodynamic design—just like the real thing.
- Best feature 1: Eye-catching optimum aerodynamic design
- Best feature 2: Easy to operate for kids over eight
- Plus points: Fast, crash-resistant build, full functions, front/rear LEDs, affordable
- Minus points: Only runs on smooth hard surfaces, small size
RC Lamborghini Veneno Main Attractions
Consider this vehicle as an excellent RC sports car for anyone above the age of 6 years. It’s a simple model to use yet has enough oomph and features to make it exciting to drive. It’s a flexible mover too and boasts a decent top speed and turning angle.
Other welcome features are the model’s crash-resistant build, bright LED lights, and full drive functions. It’s an excellent all-around sports car RC model for the money.
The Not So Good
The ground clearance for the Lamborghini Veneno is around 1/4 inch or slightly less. Therefore, it works best on hard smooth surfaces and won’t run well across deep pile carpets or grass.
Some buyers complain of the small size of this model. That’s an avoidable buying blunder if only folks take note of the scale. There are also a few complaints about how younger kids find it hard to control. Again, this kind of disappointment is often avoidable by heeding the makers recommended age.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model Scale: 1:24 |
| Makers recommended age: 8+ years |
| Dimensions: 10.7 x 4.3 x 5.8 |
| Product Weight: 9.9 oz. |
| Max Range: 98 ft. (30 meters) |
| Battery: 3 x AAA (not included) |
| Running time: 20 minutes |
| Charging time: N/A |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Eye-catching aerodynamics |
| Easy to operate for the over 8s |
| Fast for its category |
| Crash-resistant build |
| Full driving functions |
| Bright front/rear LEDs |
| Affordable price tag |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Needs hard surfaces to run |
| Small size |
5. Midea Tech Chevrolet Corvette Z06 RC Sports Car
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The Midea Tech Chevrolet Corvette Z06 takes us from racing red to mellow yellow. It’s a beautiful looking RC model with blacked-out windows that give it a sinister feel.
- Best feature 1: Detailed exterior
- Best feature 2: Full drive functions
- Plus points: Ready to run (RTR), easy to operate, crash resistant, 2.4Ghz Radio System
- Minus points: Only runs on smooth, hard surfaces, no front/rear LEDs
RC Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Main Attractions
This car’s a beast in the real world and deemed the ultimate in pure performance. The RC model version can’t match the supercharged 650 HP or the 650 lb.-ft. of torque. Still, that doesn’t prevent young minds from playing as if it does. This small replica is flexible for a toy. It turns well and moves fast enough to bring excitement to the one driving it. The car also stands up well to moderate prangs.
The low-profile wheels and simulation rubber tires work well to control the vehicle. It even has shock absorbers that provide a damping effect as it races along the ground. The included 2.4Ghz radio system allows up to 8 RC model cars to run free of interference.
The Not So Good
Midea Tech’s Chevrolet Corvette Z06 needs smooth hard surfaces to run. For indoors that means tiles, wood, and laminate floors. Outside it runs well on concrete though asphalt provides the best control. It’s not going to work on surfaces like grass, dirt, or carpets. Another con is the absence of front and rear LED lights. That’s a shame as headlamps and taillights give models an extra realistic touch.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model Scale: 1:18 |
| Makers recommended age: Toddler+ |
| Dimensions: 8 x 6 x 4” |
| Product Weight: 8 oz. |
| Max Range: Not specified |
| Battery: 4 x AA (not included) |
| Running time: Depends on batteries |
| Charging time: N/A |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Detailed exterior |
| Full function controls |
| Ready to run (RTR) |
| Easy to operate |
| Crash-resistant build |
| 2.4Ghz Radio System |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Only runs on hard surfaces |
| No front/rear LEDs |
6. Force1 High-Speed Gravity Defying RC Sports Car
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
This Force1 radio-controlled RC model is no ordinary sports car. What we have here is a flashy high-speed gravity-defying vehicle that belongs in the future.
- Best feature 1: Multi-surface racing model
- Best feature 2: Gravity-defying ability (see review)
- Plus points: Crash resistant, vibrant LEDs, stunt rotation, battery included, fast charging
- Minus points: Short playing time
It’s worth noting the tiny size of this model as it looks much bigger in the images. The dimensions are just 8 x 6.5 x 2.7”. On a positive note, you wouldn’t want anything bigger crawling up your walls.
RC Gravity Defying Sports Car Main Attractions
This tiny RC car is so much fun for kids who are three years and older. It runs well along floors just like any other model, but it doesn’t stop there. This puppy can climb up walls and across glass once you activate its powerful vacuum. Heck, you can even race upside down across ceilings if you want to. The shiny bright LED lights illuminate the scene so that kids can play in the dark.
The crash-resistant build of this tiny car helps it stand up to those inevitable falls and knocks. Kid’s love the stunt rotation feature that transforms the model into a breakdancing robot. The vehicle does use a lot of electric power (see below), but charging only takes around 45 minutes.
The Not So Good
It’s a tiny model that does a lot of cool stuff. The multi-functions of this impressive car have an impact on the battery though. The maximum playing time on a single charge is just 15 minutes, or 10 minutes if you play flat out. At least the charging time is short.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model Scale: N/A (fantasy sports car) |
| Makers recommended age: 3+ years |
| Dimensions: 8 x 6.5 x 2.7” |
| Product Weight: 9.6 oz. |
| Max Range: Not specified |
| Battery: Rechargeable LiPo (included) |
| Running time: 15 minutes |
| Charging time: 45 minutes |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Multi-surface racing model |
| Gravity-defying ability |
| Crash-resistant |
| Vibrant LEDs |
| Stunt rotation |
| Battery included |
| Fast charging time |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Short playing time |
| Small scale |
7. Super GT Nissan RC Sport Racing Drift Car
Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5
Last on the list is a sporty race vehicle rather than a luxury sports car. This model is the Super GT Nissan remote control drift car, and it exists to compete.
- Best feature 1: Durable build, crash-resistant
- Best feature 2: 4 speed modes
- Plus points: Excellent first-time sports racer, attention to detail, drift tires, includes batteries
- Minus points: Short playing time
RC Super GT Nissan Main Attractions
This Super GT RC sport racing drift car by Hobby Ace is fast and furious yet simple to operate. Its four speed modes make it an ideal learner model. The flexible, crash-resistant PC shell, stands up well to those inevitable high-speed accidents. The car’s drift performance is as exciting to watch as it is to achieve. Maneuvers include impressive U-shapes, figure of 8s, action sensitive and gesture drifts.
Drift racing seems highly skilled, but it’s much easier than it looks thanks to the specialized tires. The 2.4Ghz remote controller (RC) is comfortable to use and allows multiple cars to race. The straightforward control functions include right turn/left, forward/backward—that’s it. This model comes with a rechargeable car battery but you must buy a 9V for the remote controller.
The Not So Good
The playing time is 15 minutes at best and around 10 minutes on average. That means regular interruptions to recharge the batteries which takes 90 minutes. Most users invest in extra batteries. The car runs on affordable 700Mah1.5V AA NI-Cds. Always remember to allow a few minutes for the brushed motor to cool down between battery swaps.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model Scale: 1:16 |
| Makers recommended age: 4+ years |
| Dimensions: 11.8 x 4.7 x 3.1 |
| Product Weight: 19.2 oz. |
| Max Range: 98 ft. (30 meters) |
| Battery: 700Mah1.5V AA NI-Cd |
| Running time: 15 minutes |
| Charging time: 90 minutes |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Durable build |
| Crash-resistant |
| 4 speed modes |
| Excellent first-time racer |
| Attention to detail |
| Drift tires |
| Includes battery |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Short playing time |
Contents
- Best RC Sports Car for What?
- RC Cars Checklist Part 1
- RC Cars Checklist Part 2
- Understanding Model Scales
- Racing RC Sports Cars
- About this RC Sports Car Guide
- RC Sports Cars Comparison Table
- 1. QUN FENG RC Lamborghini Aventador | Best Budget
- RC Lamborghini Aventador Main Attractions
- The Not So Good
- 2. RASTAR Ferrari 458 Special A Sports Car | Best Value
- RC RASTAR Ferrari 458 Main Attractions
- The Not So Good
- 3. SHARPER IMAGE RC Italia Sports Car | Top Pick
- RC Italia Sports Car Main Attractions
- The Virtual Driving Seat
- The Not So Good
- 4. Red Lamborghini Veneno RC Sports Racing Car
- RC Lamborghini Veneno Main Attractions
- The Not So Good
- 5. Midea Tech Chevrolet Corvette Z06 RC Sports Car
- RC Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Main Attractions
- The Not So Good
- 6. Force1 High-Speed Gravity Defying RC Sports Car
- RC Gravity Defying Sports Car Main Attractions
- The Not So Good
- 7. Super GT Nissan RC Sport Racing Drift Car
- RC Super GT Nissan Main Attractions
- The Not So Good