Spring is here and we made a test run with the Fairlady: at three quarter throttle the front wheel lifts from the ground, and a two meter high fountain of debris is kicked up from the rear end. The Force 32 big block engine delivers insane amounts of rpm and hp for its size.

The 1:8 scale Graupner Datsun Fairlady was the wet dream of RC-cars back in the 80’s. This beat-up chassis was bought on eBay and the new body is an excellent reproduction bought from Kuwait with repro stickers included.

The simple construction is a perfect base for a miniature hot-rod. Basically just four wheels on independent suspension and a screaming nitro-engine bolted on to a subframe of two parallell 10mm aluminum beams. The rear axle has no differential which makes driving the Fairlady an interesting experience. The trick is to apply throttle when you enter the turn so the rear end looses grip and drift through the length of the turn. The brand new Force 32 engine is probably a bit overkill but fun. This build is a not a restoration - but more in the true hot-rod spirit; big block engine, upgraded suspension, upgrade steering, linkages etc.

Chassis:
Graupner Datsun Fairlady 240Z 1:8 scale (1980)

Suspension:
New Full Metal X11 Silver Piggyback Shocks from www.rc4wd.com (excellent products) combined with original springs

Transmission:
Original

Receiver Box:
Pelicase 1020 microcase series (unbreakable and waterproof, but size up to have an easier install of the receiver system)

RC:
Graupner MC16/20

Tags: Photos|Retro RC|Graupner Fairlady