If you’re hooked on 1/24-scale R/C crawlers, you are in for a treat with the ever-expanding universe of 1/18-scale scale/trail machines. While not as well-known as their slightly smaller counterparts, there are several 1/18-scale models that are packed with visual details and backed up by solid driving performance.
One of the bigger names in the 1/18-scale crawling world is FMS. They’ve seemingly hit a home run with their Toyota Land Cruiser 80 and have introduced another Toyota off-roading legend into their lineup, the FJ Cruiser.
Sporting a yellow, injection-molded hard body and white top, this small-scale off-road rig has plenty of visual detail baked in. Of course, the scale details don’t stop there, as this model also features LED headlights, taillights, and turn signals, a roof rack, side-view mirrors, side-mounted step-ups, a spare rear tire, and more.
One feature of this and other 1/18-scale crawler models that I’ve grown to enjoy is the opening hood. While you won’t find a scale engine underneath, you will find a bulk of the electronics that make this rig go, including the battery, ESC, receiver, and more.
The FMS Toyota FJ Cruiser includes a 55-turn brushed motor that provides solid crawling and trail performance. The rig is built on a metal-framed chassis that offers both stable performance and overall durability.
FMS Toyota FJ Cruiser Specs:
- Length: 278mm
- Width: 118mm
- Height: 131mm
- Wheelbase: 155mm
- Ground Clearance: 38mm
- Approach Angle: 60°
- Departure Angle: 50°
The FMS Toyota FJ Cruiser 1/18-scale scale rig is slated for release in late October (2021) and will be available from a variety of FMS dealers. For additional details about this model, visit cmldistribution.co.uk.
Image credit: CML Distribution