If you want to break new records, purchasing a fast RC car will prove worthwhile. Gone are the days when one-size-fits-all RC cars was available . It is amazing what today’s modern cars can achieve and depending on your needs, you can choose among Trucks, Cars, Buggies, Fast, Tough and more.

Did you know that there are RC cars that can reach up to 196 mph? How cool is that? On the downside, you have to spend a bit more money if you want a super fast RC car. Depending on what your budget and needs are, here are our choices for the fastest RC cars on the market.

Quick Comparison Table of The Fastest RC Cars 2024

ImageNameTop SpeedFeaturePriceRating
Traxxas XO-1 1/7 Scale AWD Supercar with TQi 2.4GHz Radio System & TSM, Red100MphIncludes telemetry sensors, TQi 2.4GHz Radio with Wireless Module, and TSM Stability Management to harness the power without sacrificing fun$$$$$
Traxxas 55077-1 Jato 3.3 Vehicle with 2.4-GHz Radio/Bluetooth, colors may vary60MphINCLUDES: One pre-built Jato 3.3 truck, pre-painted Lexan body, owner’s manual, registration card, EZ Start handheld unit with battery and 2A charger,$$$
Traxxas 6907 1/8 NHRA Funny Car RTR, Colors May Vary70MphInnovative designa and engineeringCurrently Not Available, More Options
Traxxas LaTrax Rally 4WD Rally Car, 1/18 Scale45MphAll-wheel drive for superior grip and acceleration$
Redcat Racing Lightning EPX Pro 1/10 Scale Brushless Electric Car – Metallic Red60MphVivid polycarbonate body$$
Redcat Racing Rampage XR RC Rally Car Brushless Electric with Waterproof Electronics, 2.4GHz Radio and Qty. 2-11.1v 3600mAh LIPO and Charger Included (1/5 Scale)60MphPowerful 150A Electronic Speed Controller$$$$$

If you are looking for some very fast RC Trucks, well then we have the article just for you.

If these are all a bit out of your price range we have RC Trucks under $50

Reviews of the Fastest RC Cars 2024

Traxxas XO-1

Traxxas XO-1 - overall fastest RC Car in the market

Speed: 0-100mph in under five seconds

Special features: Mamba Monster speed control TSM equipped radio gear, well-designed chassis, tuning options.

This is the very RC car that set the pace for high speed racing when it went on sale in 2012. It is an “experts only” car that can hit up to 100mph within a few seconds.  The very first thing you notice underneath the body shell is a well thought out and designed chassis. It has a 3mm aluminum flat plate that holds everything together.

The long top aluminum brace helps protect the driveline. The underside functions as front and rear aerodynamic aids. A splitter and canards on the front add some down-force, thus allowing the car to remain stable even at high speeds. On the other hand, a huge diffuser at the rear that looks downright badass is fully functional.

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Unlike many RTR models that lack tuning options, the Traxxas XO-1 provides plenty. Nearly every component of the suspension system has the adjustability level you’d find on high end RC cars. The four shocks are threaded along with plenty of shock mounting positions in the aluminum towers. The car however lacks adjustable sway bars.

Perhaps the best thing about the XO-1 is its power system, which was designed by Traxxas in conjunction with Castle Creations. It features a specially modified Mamba Monster speed control that’s integrated with unique software and capacitors.

The aluminum brushless motor is absolutely gigantic and a great match for this 1/7 scale car. The spur gear is a nice addition that houses the Cush drive system. Other notable features include Revo-spec diffs, 17mm hex hubs, belted tires, black chrome spoked wheels as well as TSM equipped radio gear.

If you are interested in the Traxxas brand, then have a look at this article – Best Traxxas RC Cars Or TrucksRead Amazon reviews

HPI Racing Baja 5B SS

HPI Racing Baja 5B SS

Speed: 45+ mph but 80+mph if upgraded

Special features: Fuelie 26S.

This model is particularly jam-packed with features that enhance its performance and speed. More importantly, it gives hobbyists an opportunity to add various after-market accessories after purchase.

The drive system that comes with Baja 5B SS is a two-wheel drive viscous differential system. This 1/5 scale desert racing buggy also comes with a drivetrain that’s boosted with specially designed parts to handle the extra horsepower of the Fuelie 26S. The aluminum tuned pipe combined with a steel header to provide an extra boost of power and durability.

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Perhaps the best thing about this car is the 8000 RPM Clutch, which revs up to a high RPM before engaging the drivetrain, thus giving you lightning fast speeds on the track. An aluminum alloy diff case does a good job of protecting the differentials from the massive power of the engine.

Also featured are Super Heavy Dogbones that transfer power from the differentials to the rear wheels with jointed rubber boots and chunk steel driveshafts. This helps minimize loss of power. All of the above combined with the One Piece Rear Uprights and Heavy Duty front hubs provides a tough unit that can blast the rugged wastelands, desert or any obstacles in its way.

Other notable features include SFL-10 MG steering servo, VVC/HD shocks, heavy duty beadlocks, gunmetal main chassis, clear pre-cut body, aluminum alloy diff case, sway bars as well as super heavy duty drive shafts, diff shafts and axles.

Traxxas Jato 3.3

Traxxas Jato 3.3 - ultra fast RC car

Speed: 60mph

Special Features: TQi Radio System, TRX 3.3 Racing Engine, Two Speed Transmission,Torque Control slipper clutch, Revo-Spec GTR shocks

While it is a lot of things, the Traxxas Jato 3.3 is first and foremost built for speed. It can hit 60mph within a few seconds thanks to the TRX 3.3 racing engine. This is a tough one to match.

It is a beautiful and highly detailed RC car with second gear wheelies as well as an advanced Ready to Race Radio system. It is equipped with a Traxxas TQi radio system with a Docking Base, thus allowing you to use iPod or iPhone to control the car.

The Jato uses a TRX 3.3 Racing Engine that is fully optimized. The same is true for the integrated, sophisticated metric hex hardware and other components. The major parts are optimized for speed, durability as well as performance. The tune pipe, two speed transmission and Torque Control slipper clutch team up to provide optimum power.

Traxxas 55077

Also featured are specially designed semi-metallic brake discs, Revo-spec GTR shocks, and zero bump steer suspension geometry. And while it runs fine out of the box, the Jato provides plenty of tuning options and driving control. The engine features a Traxxas EX-Start, which makes it easier to start. The built-in diagnostics are a nice addition as they make it easy to track the starting functions as well as glow plug.

The Traxxas Link provides control over the TQi radio system so that you can manage everything including steering percentage, throttle trim, steering sensitivity, braking strength, as well as throttle. All of the above can be adjusted by dragging the sliders on the screen or turning the transmitter multifunction knob.

Traxxas 1/8 NHRX Funny Car RTR

Speed: 70mph

Special Features: ET-2400 brushless motor, TQi radio system, low profile

If you are in the market for something that costs less than $300 but can still hit 70+ mph, the Traxxas 1/8 NHRX Funny Car will prove a worthwhile investment. It comes ready to race and has a realistic tube style black chrome chassis.

The extremely powerful ET-2400 brushless motor makes considerable contribution to this car’s high speed. Like most models in this roundup, you can sync the Funny Car with the TQi radio system along with the Traxxas app. This allows for optimization setting as well as improved torque control.

This car has a low profile and the high speed slick tires are easier to control. The model 6907 has authentic funny styling all round, right down to the black chrome wheels. The top has an adjustable wheelie bar. Being a fully electric car, you don’t have to worry about the same issues as with Nitro cars. The only downside is that it is intended for straights.Read Amazon reviews

Traxxas Rally VXL

Speed: 45+mph

Special Features: Revo Spec Torque slipper clutch, waterproof components, LCG chassis, TQi Radio System

This is another one of the fastest RC cars from Traxxas that you will find to be a great addition to your collection. Its drivetrain features a Revo-Spec Torque control slipper clutch that minimizes wheel spin. An aluminum shaft transfers power to the front as well as rear differentials. The diff consists of all steel gears that prolong longevity and provide superior wear.

Both the 2075 steering servo and Velineon VXL 3S speed are waterproof. The receiver is housed in a water-sealed radio box so that you can race without worrying about the weather conditions. Also featured is a low center of gravity chassis that helps lower the position of various components, thus improving cornering technique even during high speed racing.

Traxxas LaTrax Rally

The Traxxas Rally VXL comes with a two channel 2.4GHz TQi Radio System. This operates on four AA batteries, is very lightweight and has a 30-model memory. There is also an optional Docking Base that allows you to plug your iPhone or iPod right into the TQi, hence more adjustments.

The body looks really good and you can choose among four color combinations. We however think that the provision of a ProGraphix body would allow for endless customization opportunities. The battery compartment accommodates a 7-cell NiMH battery pack. You can also opt for a 2S or 3S LiPo pack.Read Amazon reviews

Cen Racing CTR 5.0

Cen Racing CTR 5.0

Speed: 90+ mph

Special Features: Nitro powered, Ready to Race (RTR) drift car, 1/10 scale, Skyion FM Digital 3 channel racing radio system, high impact foam bumper

Never underestimate the power of a Cen Racing CTR 5.0. Disguised in a stylish black Mercedes like shell, the car has several modifications that make speed the top priority. When put to the test, this low profile vehicle hits speeds of up to 90mph.

CTR 5.0 relies on the improved dynamics of Rev-Line 5.0 cc nitro powered engine. The nitro fired engine features a two needle carburetor system that is easy to tune. For maximum consistency, it relies on the tight O-rings seals that not only keep dirt and debris out of the motor but prevent air leaks. Refined induction and porting timing allows the engine to provide the car with a blast of super high RPM and low-end power that will leave your competition far behind. 

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The vehicle features an aluminum lower and carbon fiber upper chassis deck. It also comes with anodized aluminum threaded shocks that rely on pure racing silicon oil, 2.5mm carbon fiber shock towers and front and rear velocity shafts.

Its anti-roll bar prevents the car from toppling over when in high speeds. Furthermore its high impact foam bumper minimizes damage when hard hit. With its lightweight structure and a low profile design, the CTR5.0 hits high speeds with minimal resistance.

The CTR5.0 comes standard with aluminum pillow ball suspension and extra-smooth durable 16 adjustable ball differentials. This nitro powered vehicle rides on extra-soft belted racing tires with molded inserts that are slip-proof.

This vehicle features a Skyion FM Digital 3 channel radio system. Skyion comes with a ten model memory and fully adjustable features such as dual rate, exponential, antilock brakes, end point adjustment, and much more.

The major downfall that haunts the CTR5.0 is the loud annoying sound and the unavailability on amazon. But a compromise can be made if you consider the superb dynamics at work and the affordable price range

Traxxas 4-Tec 3.3

Traxxas 4-Tec 3.3

Speed: 70+mphs

Special features: Nitro powered, 1/10, RTR (Ready to Run), TQi 2.4GHz Radio System, adjustable 2-speed auto-shifting transmission

Traxxas yet again brings you world-class horse power with the 4-Tec 3.3. This sports car themed vehicle keeps the competition far behind. As one of the race track top-dogs, the 4-Tec 3.3 features limited downfalls that guarantee you speed on wheels.

The 4-Tec 3.3 combines the power of asphalt-hugging extra-light chassis with the TRX 3.3 racing engine to unleash supersonic speeds. For a supercar experience, the 4-Tec 3.3 uses complex but innovative body graphics that echo the speed and style of the underlying double-deck chassis.

Fastest traxxas

Current versions of this model now feature Traxxas TQi 2.4GHz direct sequence spread spectrum radio system. This radio system comes with a 5-channel receiver that features two steering inputs and a transmitter with a Traxxas Link wireless module that lets you use your smartphone as a powerful tuning tool for any Traxxas model. Also included is a two-button programming interface and integrated failsafe.

Other major highlights of the 4-Tec 3.3 include, a 4W independent suspension, three-belt drive, 4  trademarked composite, oil-filled ultra-shock, adjustable two-speed transmission, bushing-supported bell-crank steering, planetary gear differentials, Pro-Line V-Rage tires, front foam bumper, single-disc brakes, low profile centered fuel tank, 2A peak detecting DC fast charger, full set of rubber-sealed bearings, and 2 inch silver mesh wheels

Mission-D 4WD GTR Drift Car (ARR)

Mission-D 4WD GTR Drift Car (ARR)

Speed: 50+ mph but 80+mph if upgraded

Special features: 4 wheel-drive, Almost Ready to Run RC car, electric powered, brushed motor, fully adjustable suspensions

Top up your speed with the Mission-D 4WD GTR drift car. For an electric powered RC vehicle, the Mission-D 4WD is without doubt the fastest of its kind. Its sophisticated features are design for a power packed performance.

This RC car features a low maintenance 4WD chassis system that guarantees you efficiency. Its improved 22T brushed motor and electronic speed control provide enough wheel spinning torque while minimizing the current draw. For smooth and efficient operation, the chassis uses ball bearings throughout its operation.

The fully adjustable Mission-D’s suspension feature oil-filled shocks that are constructed from durable lightweight aluminum. The adjustable ball differential is mounted in front with a locked rear axle at the back. When you combine the suspension dynamics together with the well thought out electronics installation and battery placement, you get a well-balanced chassis system that makes drifting a breeze for the first time

The vehicle’s scale treaded drift tires are safely mounted on offset racing wheels. The Mission-D 4WD GTR car does not feature a radio system unlike the Traxxas brand. You will purchase the required 2CH transmitter and receiver radio system separately.

Redcat Racing Lightning EPX Pro

Speed: 60mph

Special Features: EPX Pro Slipstream Brushless 3300KV RC-540 motor, 1/10 scale, 2.4GHz radio system, Electric powered, ready to run, 4 wheel drive, aluminum oil filled shocks, Brushless waterproof ESC, drift tires, and polycarbonate body

You can never go wrong with a Redcat Racing Lightning EXP pro. This vehicle champions the race track with supersonic speeds that leave the completion in dust. Just like every other Redcat product, Lightning EXP Pro is designed with the highest level of ingenuity for accelerations beyond imagination.

Mounted on its extra-light plastic chassis is a 3300KV brushless motor that powered up the four wheel system. Also included on board is a 3500mAh LIPO battery.

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This vehicle features a stylish polycarbonate body with red finish. Using the radio system you have enough control for weaving in and out of traffic.

To achieve race winning tractions, the Lightning EPX Pro comes with aluminum oil-filled shocks and adjustable independent suspension, like those found on real life race cars.

Included in its packaging is the 2.4GHz transmitter that need 8AA batteries to operate, 7.4V 3500mAh LiPo 15C rechargeable battery pack and wall charger.

The Redcat Racing Lightning EPX Pro’s low profile design acts in its advantage when you take speed into account. With lowered center of gravity, the vehicle can master accelerations of up to 60 mph.

When compared to the other vehicles featured, the Redcat Racing Lightning EPX Pro is not that fast. But it makes up with its superb chassis system and an horse-powered engine like no other.

For more on Redcat Racing RC cars – Best Redcat Racing RC Cars Or TrucksRead Amazon reviews

Redcat Racing Rampage XR

Speed: 60mph

Special Features: Hobby-based, 1/5 scale, 2.4GHz, ready to run, Nitro powered, Rally car, 4wheel drive, and 500cc fuel tank capacity

Another ambitious Redcat monster is the Rampage XR famous for its 60mph speed limits. This large scale, nitro powered, four-wheel drive car has the size and stamina to handle the toughest terrain with easy.

For maximum horse power, the vehicle features a tuned exhausted pipe with high flow intake that allows the powerful 2-Stroke gasoline engine to breath properly.

The Rampage XR has on board strong 4mm T6 aluminum chassis and metal gears for long lasting durability. Its other amazing features include aluminum oil filled shocks, dual disc brakes, detailed rally body and tuned exhaust for extreme performance whether on or off road.

Conclusion:

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So this is our list of the Fastest RC cars we found worthy of your money. Some very surprising and impressive speeds achieved by these RC vehicles.  So much fun to be had, depending on your budget and needs, you will definitely find something for you.