The Hobby Hideaway Verdict: A 40th Anniversary Evolution! The year 2024 marked the 40th anniversary of the original Hornet, and Tamiya has celebrated this milestone by giving the icon a massive performance boost. The Hornet EVO is the perfect bridge between nostalgia and modern engineering. It retains the classic silhouette and bathtub frame that we all grew up with but replaces the old-school bouncy suspension with a sophisticated setup. At Hobby Hideaway, we recommend the EVO for the veteran who wants that classic look without the classic "Hornet hop."
Modern Engineering Meets a Classic Frame The biggest change in the EVO is the suspension. While the original utilized a swing-axle and rolling-rigid setup, the EVO features 4-wheel independent double wishbone suspension. Combined with CVA oil dampers at all four corners, this buggy tracks much straighter and handles jumps with far more grace than its predecessor. It’s the same Hornet soul, but with a chassis that is actually ready for technical off-road terrain.
A Beefed-Up Drivetrain Tamiya didn't stop at the suspension; they overhauled the heart of the machine. The EVO features a sealed rear gearbox borrowed from the modern DT-02 chassis, complete with a 3-bevel differential gear for smooth, reliable cornering. To ensure maximum efficiency right out of the box, this anniversary kit includes full ball bearings, reducing friction and extending your run times during long bashing sessions in Orleans.
Key Features & Technical Specs:
Anniversary Edition: Commemorates 40 years of the Hornet with an updated sticker design on the classic polycarbonate body.
Upgraded Suspension: Full 4-wheel independent double wishbone suspension for modern handling.
Premium Dampers: Equipped with front and rear CVA oil-filled dampers to soak up harsh landings.
DT-02 Drivetrain: Features a sealed rear gearbox with an internal differential gear for superior dust-proofing and traction.
Ball Bearing Kit: Includes a full set of ball bearings as standard—no need to buy them separately!
Dimensions: 430mm Length | 230mm Width | 135mm Height.
Hobby Hideaway Pro Tip: The Hornet EVO is a game-changer because it finally brings independent suspension to the bathtub frame. Because this kit uses the DT-02 style gearbox, it is much more robust than the original. When building this, pay close attention to the shock oil—since the car is so lightweight, using a slightly lighter oil can help the independent suspension feel even more "plush" over small bumps. It’s the ultimate "sleeper" buggy that looks vintage but drives like a modern racer!
Why buy from Hobby Hideaway? We aren’t just an online store; we are a racing community. Whether you are a long-time Tamiya fan or a newcomer looking for your first "real" RC kit, we provide the expertise to help you succeed. From technical advice to a curated selection of Tamiya parts in Canada, we’ve got your back from the assembly bench to the finish line.
Join the Action at the Orleans Track! Got your Hornet EVO dialed in? While our indoor track focuses on smaller scales, our community is full of Tamiya builders. Bring your EVO down to our Orleans shop during our community events to swap building tips and show off your 40th-anniversary masterpiece. There’s no better place to share the passion for RC than with your local crew!
Note: This is an assembly kit. Required to complete: 2-channel radio, steering servo, 7.2-7.4v battery with compatible charger, and Tamiya PS paint.
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