Mini 4WD Motor Chart
Tamiya offers various motors designed to cater to different racing conditions and preferences. Let's explore the types of Tamiya Mini 4WD motors and their differences.
1a. Stock Motors, Part 1
There are two brands of stock motors - the Mabuchi and the SMC - each having certain benefits:
• Mabuchi: The most basic motor, included in entry-level kits. This motor is better for high-speed tracks.
• SMC: The most basic motor, included in entry-level kits. This motor is better for high-torque tracks.
Speed: 1 Star
Torque: 1 Star
Legal Classes: Box Stock, however you could use it in any class
In our testing, we've found that the Mabuchi has more RPM and less torque while the SMC has more torque and less RPM. You can tell the difference in the motors by the vents on one side - the SMC has 2 vents, the Mabuchi has none. You can also check the endbell of both motors - the motor type is printed there.
Notes:
• Speed and Torque: Moderate speed and torque, making both suitable for beginners and casual racing.
• Applications: Ideal for standard track conditions and new racers.
1b. Stock Motors, Part 2
In addition to being two different types of manufacturers, there are also two different shaft 'layouts' - one motor with a single shaft and one with a dual shaft.
• Single Shaft: Included with every Mini 4WD Kit except the MA chassis.
• Dual Shaft: Included in ONLY the MA chassis kits.
Speed: 1 Star
Torque: 1 Star
Legal Classes: Box Stock, however you could use it in any class
Both the single shaft and dual shaft motors are available from SMC and Mabuchi.
Notes:
• Speed and Torque: Moderate speed and torque, making both suitable for beginners and casual racing.
• Applications: Ideal for standard track conditions and new racers.
2. Rev-Tuned Motors
• Rev-Tuned 2 Motor: A step up from the standard motor.
Speed: 2.5 Star
Torque: 1 Star
Legal Classes: Basic, Tuned, BMax, Advanced and Open
Notes:
• Speed: Higher RPM compared to the standard motor, offering increased speed.
• Torque: Slightly lower torque, which may affect acceleration.
• Applications: Best for long straight tracks where high speed is advantageous.
3. Atomic-Tuned Motors
• Atomic-Tuned 2 Motor: A balanced option between speed and torque.
Speed: 1.5 Star
Torque: 1.5 Star
Legal Classes: Basic, Tuned, BMax, Advanced and Open
Notes:
• Speed and Torque: Provides a good balance, making it versatile for various track types.
• Applications: Suitable for tracks that require a mix of speed and power.
4. Torque-Tuned Motors
• Torque-Tuned 2 Motor: Designed for tracks with more curves and inclines.
Speed: 1 Star
Torque: 2.5 Star
Legal Classes: Basic, Tuned, BMax, Advanced and Open
Notes:
• Speed: Moderate speed, balanced with the increased torque.
• Torque: Higher torque provides better acceleration and power to navigate turns and slopes.
• Applications: Ideal for technical tracks with many curves and obstacles.
5. Light-Dash Motors
• Light-Dash Motor: Offers a balance of speed and durability.
Speed: 2.5 Star
Torque: 2.5 Star
Legal Classes: Basic, BMax, Advanced and Open
Notes:
Speed and Torque: Above average speed with reliable torque, ensuring consistent performance on many different track layouts.
Applications: Suitable for endurance races or tracks where motor reliability is crucial.
6. Hyper-Dash Motors
• Hyper-Dash 3 Motor: Known for its high speed and power.
Speed: 3 Star
Torque: 3 Star
Legal Classes: BMax, Advanced and Open
Notes:
• Speed and Torque: Very high RPM, delivering exceptional speed while still having excellent torque for corners and inclines.
• Applications: Best for advanced racers on high-speed tracks with fewer technical sections.
7. Power-Dash Motors
• Power-Dash Motor: A high-performance motor with a focus on power.
Speed: 3 Star
Torque: 3.5 Star
Legal Classes: BMax, Advanced and Open
Notes:
• Speed: High speed, about the same as the Hyper Dash.
• Torque: Slightly more torque, providing powerful acceleration.
• Applications: Suitable for tracks with a combination of straight sections and challenging curves.
8. Sprint-Dash Motors
• Sprint-Dash Motor: Combines high speed and torque for versatile racing.
Speed: 4 Star
Torque: 2.5 Star
Legal Classes: BMax, Advanced and Open
Notes:
• Speed and Torque: High-speed, moderate torque motor.
• Applications: Versatile, but best suited for more open track layouts.
9. Ultra-Dash Motors
• Ultra-Dash Motor: The top-tier motor for speed enthusiasts.
Speed: 4 Star
Torque: 3.5 Star
Legal Classes: Open
Notes:
• Speed: Extremely high RPM, the fastest among Tamiya motors.
• Torque: Sufficient torque (better than most), but primarily designed for top speed.
• Applications: Used in competitive racing on tracks designed for maximum speed.
10. Plasma-Dash Motors
• Plasma-Dash Motor: High-performance motor designed for maximum output.
Speed: 4 Star
Torque: 4 Star
Legal Classes: None at this time
Notes:
Speed: Extremely high RPM, providing unparalleled speed.
Torque: Strong torque to support its high-speed capabilities.
Applications: Ideal for competitive racing where maximum speed and torque are essential.
