The Car That Started it All For Me, The Tamiya Grasshopper
May 14,1984 Tamiya’s RC (radio controlled) division releases one of my all time favorites, the Grasshopper. The Grasshopper item# 58043 is a 2wd off-road buggy. One of less than 10 different off road buggy models of its kind, at the time manufactured by Tamiya, but at a much more affordable price then some of the others. Around $60.00 USD, and worth every penny. For the 12 year old of the early 80’s it was easy to assemble, and much more fun to drive. For an entry level car and an introduction into the RC world it was perfect.
Item#58346- 2005 release
Not much has changed about the car from 1984 to now.The original used a 3 step single resistor manual speed control. The newest version according to Tamiya’s website comes with a Hobbywing THW 1060 ESC (electronic speed control). A massive upgrade. The 2005 release I have pictuered above came with Tamiyas TBLE-04s. It still comes with a 380 brushed motor, although the gear ratio has changed. The dimensions changed very slightly. Adding 3mm to the clearance, and 5mm to the overall height. But it cut the weight by almost .60kg. The shocks are still friction. Unlike other RC cars the body is hard plastic, not polycarbonate, and it is screwed down, for a much stronger frame. The gearbox is sealed to prevent dirt and debris from getting at the differential, and causing a problem.You still need a 2 channel radio, a 7.2 volt NiMH (nickel metal hydride) battery, a charger, and a steering servo to complete the car. Same as it was in 1984.
The affordability and accessibility quickly made the Grasshopper a top seller for Tamiya back then. It is still available today. Not to mention very popular among collectors, and enthusiasts. If interested, definitely shop around for a good price. Depending on where you go the price varies. As of writing this article Tamiya USA is selling it for $182.00 US. Tower Hobbies and horizon Hobby have it for $127.40 US.
The person that is interested in purchasing this RC car is probably like me. A collector buying it to bring back memories from their youth. Or if you are looking for something easy to build with your 10 year old. It is not an intense driving experience, and they will have fun tinkering with and upgrading it, as there are a few things most people change. It is an entry level car that has stayed close to the original design. There are alot of other options out there if you are looking for a more modern car, that you want to bash. Check out some of my other articles if you think this is not for you, But for me I smile everytime I look on my shelf, and see my Grasshopper. Followed by taking it out for a spin.
