The Team Associated RC10 is legendary. Its 2WD dominance on the RC racing scene is undeniable, marked by Jay Halsey’s victory at the inaugural IFMAR Off Road World Championships. While that win cemented the 2WD RC10 in history, a lesser-known fact is that Halsey also piloted a prototype 4wd RC10 at the same event, securing a remarkable second place. This begs the question: what if Team Associated had pursued the 4WD path for the RC10 from the start? The answer is now here – the RC10 4WD off-road buggy, a fusion of iconic heritage and modern 4WD performance.
Imagine taking the celebrated RC10, injecting it with the cutting-edge 4WD technology refined in models like the B74, and packaging it all into one complete kit. No more Frankensteinian projects of combining RC10 parts with aftermarket conversion kits. This is a genuine Team Associated RC10 4WD, engineered for racing right out of the box. Simply add your preferred electronics, and you’re ready to dominate the track with unparalleled 4WD control.
This kit is packed with high-performance features: Stealth® transmissions both front and rear, equipped with adjustable ball differentials; the race-proven V2 slipper clutch system; robust CVA driveshafts; and a dependable low-friction center belt tension system. The RC10 4WD doesn’t compromise on ground clearance either. Its smooth aluminum monocoque tub chassis and meticulously designed gearboxes ensure maximum clearance for navigating challenging terrains.
Image alt text: Side view of the original RC10 4WD prototype buggy, showcasing its innovative design from 1985.
The independent suspension, featuring hard-anodized coil-over shocks, delivers a smooth ride even on bumpy surfaces. The precision-molded nylon suspension components offer customization options through dyeing. Furthermore, the long front A-Arm/Ball Joint configuration allows for precise tuning of static camber, camber rise, caster, ride height, and spring rate. This level of adjustability ensures the RC10 4WD can be perfectly dialed in for any track condition, maximizing your 4WD advantage.
The Genesis of 4WD RC Racing: A Look Back
The story of the RC10 4WD actually begins at the very inception of competitive off-road RC racing. Back in 1985, at the inaugural IFMAR Off Road World Championships in Del Mar, California, Team Associated already recognized the potential of 4WD in buggy racing. This forward-thinking approach led to the development of the prototype 4WD RC10, which Jay Halsey bravely raced. After his earlier triumph in the 2WD Stock class, Halsey was incredibly close to achieving another victory in the 4WD class, ultimately finishing a very close second with the 4WD RC10 prototype.
Despite this promising start, Team Associated’s focus shifted towards refining their dominant 2WD platform. It would be many years before they officially entered the 4WD market with the release of the B44. However, the dream of a 4WD RC10 never truly faded. In the intervening years, numerous aftermarket companies stepped in to create their own RC10 4WD conversion kits, demonstrating the enduring appeal of combining the RC10 legacy with 4WD performance.
Now, Team Associated bridges the gap between history and innovation with the official RC10 4WD kit. Forget the hassle of piecing together a 4WD buggy from disparate parts and hoping for compatibility. This kit provides everything needed to build a genuine, high-performance RC10 4WD straight from one box, ensuring seamless integration and optimized 4WD handling.
Image alt text: The complete RC10 4WD kit box, showcasing the packaging and highlighting that it includes all necessary components for assembly.
The Legend Evolved: RC10 Enters the 4WD Era
This isn’t just a retro release; it’s an evolution. The iconic RC10 is reborn as a complete 4WD race buggy, offering a unique blend of vintage aesthetics and modern performance. Imagine building a high-performance race buggy reminiscent of the golden age of RC racing – the 90s – but equipped with the 4WD technology and your choice of contemporary electronics (electronics are sold separately and compatible with 6-cell NiMh and 2S LiPo batteries).
The RC10 4WD kit is comprehensive, including a clear polycarbonate ProTech body with a driver figure, a 5.5” high-downforce wing, full ball bearings for smooth operation, CVA driveshafts for efficient power transfer, and vintage-style front and rear 4WD spike tires. All of this is built upon the foundation of the classic gold anodized 6061-T6 monocoque tub chassis, a hallmark of the original RC10.
With the RC10 4WD, you’re not just getting a piece of RC history; you’re getting a competitive 4WD machine ready to tackle the track. Experience the enhanced traction, superior handling, and unmatched control that 4WD brings to the legendary RC10 platform. It’s time to unleash the full potential of 4WD and rediscover the thrill of RC racing with the RC10 4WD buggy.
