Building an RC: Tamiya Avante (Time Lapse)

This is a time lapse build of a custom 1988 Tamiya Avante 2011 re-release edition. The completed build results are shown at the end of the video.

First of all, special thanks to EuroRC (eurorc.com) for sending me this kit (#58489). I really appreciate the support! EuroRC is an established RC shop and was founded in 2011 by dedicated RC race drivers. Their commitment to excellent service and products has garnered them customers in over 60 countries worldwide.Thanks to Johannes and Niko for the kit—and the amazing quick delivery from Finland to the United States.

Website: https://www.eurorc.com

DISCOUNT CODE: Mechanic5

Please check EuroRC out and if you plan to buy something you can use this 5% discount code (available until April 30, 2022)

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The Tamiya Avante is undoubtedly not just one of Tamiya’s most iconic RC cars but probably one of the top iconic cars in the history of the RC industry. Although some may argue it’s all bling and over-engineered, it is unquestionably one that exudes individuality, character, and beauty. Although it wasn’t one of the best performers it’s one of the most recognizable premium RC cars from that era, from a worldwide perspective. I believe if Tamiya has never done any re-release beyond the 1988 Avante, it could be one of the most coveted cars.

The Avante came out during the golden era of RC cars, in 1988, and was designed by the legendary Tamiya designer Fumiko Taki (he worked on Tamiya’s first and yet another iconic RC car, the 1976 RA-1201 Porsche Turbo RSR Type 934, to name a few). The Avante was the successor to the Hot Shot and predecessor to the Egress. It competed against race level RC cars of that time like Yokomo’s Super Dog Fighter C4/870c (YZ10 in the US), Kyosho’s Turbo Optima Mid SE, and Schumacher’s Cat XLS. Although the Avante had some unique engineering design it wasn’t as effective and practical, especially on bumpy and twisty tracks. Its disadvantage is in its suspension design, weight, sensitive steering, and somewhat limited gearing options. But, on a more flat track it was very capable. Another aspect that doesn’t make it as track-friendly are maintenance and tuning. I’m reminded by this when I switched the motor out and change pinion gears, or when I had to adjust the camber numerous times. It requires a little disassembly and attention. However, it’s not as laborious as the Schumacher Cat XLS. With all that said, it’s still one of the few cars that truly deserves a spot in any serious RC enthusiast’s shelf and it’s entirely because of its character, history, and individuality. I’ve always thought about the Avante and I never felt complete as an RC enthusiast until I was able to build one. What’s astonishing is that this car (and the design) was from 34 years ago, and yet it still looks bewitching and sophisticated. I don’t think many cars in that period will have the same qualities. The Avante may have a love-hate relationship from the RC community, but I don’t think anyone can argue that it’s the only car from the ‘80s that’s continually being produced and sold, has variants, has a demand, and is still a successful brand product. It’s a formula that makes this car an icon or even a legend.

As for the build, I had the hardest time figuring out what to do, not because I was running out of ideas, but because I really like the look of the original Avante. I had set aside a spare body and wing, and kept the original decals in case I wanted to do a box art version later. The paint is the iconic metallic blue backed by anodized silver (instead of plain silver) to make it pop more, and then backed by silver, white, and black. The original Avante wheels are one of the most unique designs out there and I decided to set them aside but do something a little different—modifying and painting deep dish wheels and adding a touch of customization aka ABS racing cam disc covers. I crafted an underbody protector made out of ABS as well. The wheels for running are DF03 wheels painted and customized with vinyl. I made lexan endplates for the wings. The driver helmet is from Bittydesign as I wanted something unique. And then all the decals are custom made, including the motor decal. I used gold in certain places as I wanted to elevate the premium look. I kept and re-wired the included TBLE-04S ESC but added a fan to accommodated the Super Stock TZ motor. The servo is a low profile ProTek 160SS and the receiver is a Futaba R304SB-E. Since this Avante has lost it’s original and iconic look, I created graffiti-styled “The Bastard” decals for the wing and side body. Other items are a couple Lunsford titanium turnbuckles and Square RC Japan adjusters. Tires are all from Schumacher.

There really are no mechanical upgrades aside from the motor and stainless hex machine screws. I kept everything stock as I’ll only be running it a few times. This build was exciting for me because the Avante is one of those cars that holds a high place in RC history.