The Ultimate Vintage 4WD RC Buggy
The Tamiya Avante (#58072), released in 1988, is one of Tamiya’s most iconic and innovative RC buggies. Designed as a high-performance, competition-level model, the Avante showcased cutting-edge engineering, premium materials, and striking aesthetics. Despite its initial reputation as a challenging buggy to master, the Avante became a highly sought-after collector‘s item due to its advanced design and enduring legacy.
Overview of the Tamiya Avante
The Avante was built to push the boundaries of RC technology during its time. Featuring a shaft-driven 4WD system, a monocoque chassis, and adjustable suspension, the Avante was a technological marvel. Its bold styling, highlighted by a sleek polycarbonate body and aluminum components, made it an instant standout on the track and in hobby shops.
Key Features
- Scale: 1/10.
- Drivetrain: Full-Time 4WD with a central shaft.
- Body Material: Lightweight polycarbonate.
- Purpose: Designed for off-road racing and advanced hobbyists.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scale | 1/10 |
| Length | Approx. 420 mm |
| Width | Approx. 240 mm |
| Height | Approx. 130 mm |
| Wheelbase | 260 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 1.7 kg (without battery) |
| Drive System | Shaft-Driven 4WD |
| Motor | RS-540 brushed motor |
| Chassis Material | Carbon-Reinforced Monocoque |
| Suspension | Fully Adjustable Double Wishbone |
| Body Material | Polycarbonate |
Detailed Features of the Tamiya Avante
1. Advanced Chassis Design
The Avante’s carbon-reinforced monocoque chassis was a significant departure from the plastic tub designs of earlier buggies:
- Lightweight and Rigid:
- The chassis offered superior rigidity, improving handling and stability during high-speed runs.
- Integrated Electronics Compartment:
- The enclosed design protected the receiver, servo, and ESC from dirt and debris.
2. Drivetrain and 4WD System
The Avante featured a shaft-driven 4WD system, providing consistent power delivery to all four wheels:
- Central Drive Shaft:
- Powered the front and rear gearboxes for balanced traction.
- Ball Differentials:
- Equipped with front and rear ball differentials to improve cornering performance and reduce drivetrain wear.
- Efficient Power Transmission:
- The drivetrain was optimized for smooth and efficient operation, reducing power loss.
3. Suspension System
The Avante’s suspension system was highly adjustable, offering unparalleled versatility:
- Double Wishbone Design:
- Fully independent suspension on all four wheels, allowing precise adjustments for camber, toe, and ride height.
- Oil-Filled Shocks:
- High-performance aluminum dampers provided excellent shock absorption and stability over rough terrain.
- Adjustable Linkages:
- Allowed fine-tuning for different track conditions, giving racers a competitive edge.
4. Motor and Electronics
- RS-540 Brushed Motor:
- Delivered reliable power, making the Avante capable of impressive speeds on both dirt and paved surfaces.
- Mechanical Speed Controller (MSC):
- Standard in the original release, though many racers upgraded to electronic speed controllers (ESCs) for better performance.
- Battery Compatibility:
- Designed for 7.2V Ni-Cd battery packs, offering around 10–15 minutes of runtime.
5. Wheels and Tires
- Spiked Racing Tires:
- Offered superior grip on off-road surfaces, including dirt and grass.
- Unique 5-Spoke Wheels:
- Lightweight and stylish, adding to the Avante’s aggressive aesthetic.
6. Body Design
- Sleek Polycarbonate Shell:
- The aerodynamic body was designed for reduced drag and improved speed.
- Striking Decals:
- The Avante featured bold blue and yellow graphics, with prominent branding that emphasized its premium status.
Performance Characteristics
Speed and Handling
- The Avante’s RS-540 motor and lightweight chassis allowed it to reach top speeds of 30+ km/h, depending on the battery and motor setup.
- The advanced suspension system and 4WD drivetrain ensured exceptional handling, particularly on challenging off-road terrain.
Off-Road Capability
- The spiked tires, adjustable suspension, and 4WD system made the Avante excel on:
- Dirt tracks.
- Grass fields.
- Loose gravel.
Durability
- While the Avante was designed for performance, its intricate components required careful maintenance to avoid damage during hard impacts.
Why the Tamiya Avante is Special
1. Cutting-Edge Engineering
The Avante was one of Tamiya’s most advanced RC buggies of its time, featuring premium materials and innovative designs that pushed the boundaries of RC technology.
2. Collectability
Due to its iconic status and limited production run, the original Avante has become a highly sought-after collector’s item.
3. Competitive Performance
The Avante was designed for racing, with features like adjustable suspension, ball differentials, and a lightweight chassis giving it a significant edge on the track.
4. Timeless Aesthetic
Its bold design, complete with sleek lines and eye-catching graphics, makes the Avante a standout both on the track and on display.
Re-Releases and Modern Updates
- Tamiya Avante Re-Release (#58489) (2011):
- Faithfully recreated the original Avante with modern updates, including:
- An electronic speed controller (ESC).
- Improved materials for durability.
- Compatibility with contemporary RC electronics.
- Faithfully recreated the original Avante with modern updates, including:
- Avante Black Special (#84270) (2012):
- Featured a stunning black and gold color scheme with upgraded components for enhanced performance.
FAQs About the Tamiya Avante
Q: Is the Avante suitable for beginners?
While its advanced features make it appealing, the Avante’s complexity and maintenance requirements make it better suited for experienced hobbyists or collectors.
Q: Can the Avante be upgraded?
Yes! Popular upgrades include:
- Installing a brushless motor for higher speeds.
- Adding modern ESCs for smoother throttle control.
- Replacing stock shocks with higher-capacity dampers for better handling.
Q: How does the Avante compare to other Tamiya buggies?
The Avante is more advanced and performance-focused than earlier models like the Hotshot or Boomerang, making it a favorite for competitive racing and serious enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The Tamiya Avante (#58072) remains one of the most iconic and innovative RC buggies ever produced. Its combination of cutting-edge engineering, bold design, and competitive performance set a new benchmark for 4WD off-road models. Whether you’re a racer, a collector, or a hobbyist, the Avante is a timeless classic that continues to inspire admiration and excitement.
Looking to build or restore a Tamiya Avante? Explore our expert guides, upgrade tips, and reviews to get the most out of this legendary buggy!