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CheapRCCars

1/16 Scale RC Cars

1/16 cars are about 25cm long and the most popular size for a first hobby car. They're light, tough, cheap to run and fit in a garden or a park equally well.

36 in stock, plus pre-orders

Available to pre-order

New and restocking models you can order now. Each product page shows the expected date.

Why 1/16 is the value scale

A 1/16 car weighs far less than a 1/10, so crashes do less damage and parts cost less. Batteries are smaller and cheaper. Yet the car is big enough for proper 4WD suspension and handles grass much better than the mini scales. For most families and first-time adult buyers, it's the right size.

1/16 cars by type

What to look for

Oil-filled shocks, a proportional 2.4GHz radio and a removable battery are the basics. Brushless 1/16 cars are very quick for their size, so a throttle-limit switch is useful if a child will drive. Compare sizes in the scales guide, and see the MJX Hyper Go guide for one of the best-supported 1/16 ranges.

Several 1/16 ranges come as a brushed car and a brushless version on the same chassis, such as the Blackzon Slyder MT and Slyder MT Turbo. Buying the brushed one now and the motor upgrade later is a sensible way to spread the cost.

Questions we get asked

How big is a 1/16 RC car?
Around 22 to 30cm long, depending on type. Small enough to carry in one hand.
Is 1/16 good for grass?
Short to medium grass, yes, particularly as a monster truck or truggy. Long grass suits 1/12 and 1/10 better.
Is 1/16 or 1/18 better for a child?
1/16 handles outdoor ground better; 1/18 is slightly lighter and cheaper. For a garden-and-park car, 1/16 is the safer choice.