Tamiya 58733 1/10 SUPRA (JZA80)EXCL ESC (BT-01)

The fourth generation Toyota Supra (JZA80) was announced as Toyota's flagship sportscar in 1993. Its top grade RZ model employed a 3-liter inline-6 twin turbo engine capable of 280hp, 6-speed transmission, 4-wheel double wishbone suspension and ventilated disc brakes for front and rear. The muscular form and high-spec performance mesmerized fans all over the world and achieved success in motorsports races, and now the car is depicted by this R/C model assembly kit with a realistic polycarbonate body.

Options Galore: the 2WD BT-01 Chassis

The 2WD BT-01 chassis gives a choice of two types of wheelbase, and front- or rear-wheel drive system. Without removing battery pack, motor and R/C equipment setups from the center frame, simply change attachment directions of final gears and steering linkage to switch between front- and rear-wheel drive; front (FR) or midship rear (MR) motor position can be chosen for rear-wheel drive cars. The 4-wheel double wishbone suspension features symmetrical structure and friction dampers. Unitized sections such as motor mount, final gears and suspension facilitate ease of assembly and effective maintenance. An MR setup is recommended for this model of the Supra, but the FR setup is similar to that of the full-size car and will be worth a try.

- Bathtub frame
- Rear-wheel drive
- Plastic 4-bevel differential gear
- 3-piece steering tie-rod
- 4-wheel double wishbone suspension
- Friction dampers (front and rear)
- Gear ratio = 8.27:1 (with kit standard 22T pinion)
- Type 540 motor
- Electronic speed controller (ESC) is sold separately

The classic Supra form is artfully captured by the polycarbonate body and several separately molded parts.

Separate headlight cases give the front a highly realistic look.

Side mirrors are molded separately in ABS plastic.

The gently curving rear wing is also molded in ABS.

10-spoke wheels are paired with treaded semi-pneumatic tires.

Here is the BT-01 chassis, which is a joy to build and work on thanks to its use of various unitized sections.

The servo is housed in the right rear, with a long link rod used in the 3-piece setup.

The double-wishbone suspension uses symmetrical arms.

While coil-sprung dampers are fitted as standard, the BT-01 can be used with separately sold TRF Special Dampers (Hard Black Coating).

The unitized motor mount is affixed to the chassis with 2 screws.

Power goes from the midship rear motor to the rear wheels via propeller shaft.

The BT-01 uses a plastic 4-bevel differential gear, and is compatible with TT-02 Hop-Up Options such as ball differentials and oil-filled differentials.

Here is the rear double-wishbone suspension. As the car corners, rear wheels gain toe-in for better stability.

Suspension components are also unitized for smoother pit work.

Flip-up battery holders let you change the battery quickly.

A transponder holder is also included - great for races!

As illustrated here, the BT-01 can be assembled in 3 different setups, each offering 2 wheelbases: 251mm and 257mm.