Introduction
Growing up, I was more of a Scalextric kid, where all you had to do was place stickers on the car, put it on a track, and pull a lever. However, I had friends who were obsessed with Tamiya, and I admired their dedication in meticulously assembling these fantastic cars and racing them using radio control. The Wild One, in particular, stood out as a magical off-roading buggy with its simplistic yet futuristic design.
A Childhood Dream Realized
If only someone would build a real, life-sized Wild One, I used to think. Well, that dream has now become a reality. The same people who gave us stunning scale model cars like the Aston Martin DB5 Blower, Bentley, Bugatti Type 35, and Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa have taken it a step further. They reached out to Tamiya HQ in Japan and created a full-size Wild One. Using a steel spaceframe chassis, the Little Car Company has widened it to accommodate two full-sized adults.
Improved Design
To enhance driver visibility and pedestrian safety, the rather jagged-looking suspension turrets on the original radio control car have been smoothed out. This ensures that the driver has a clear view of the road ahead, while pedestrians are less likely to get injured by any protruding parts.
Power and Fun
The Tamiya Wild One Max is not just a sight to behold; it’s also a thrill to drive. With a power output of 38bhp and a weight of 500kg, it promises an exhilarating experience on and off the road. The combination of power and weight allows for swift acceleration and nimble maneuverability. Whether you’re zipping through city streets or tackling rough terrains, the Wild One Max is guaranteed to provide endless fun.
The Tamiya Wild One Max: A Wild and Eco-Friendly Ride
Eco-Friendly Commuter Vehicle
The Tamiya Wild One Max is not your average eco-friendly commuter vehicle. It goes beyond the cuddly little extroverts like the Citroen Ami and takes things to the next level. While the Ami target a different audience, the Wild One Max is all about fun and adventure.
Specifications and Features
Measuring 3.6 meters in length and 1.9 meters in width, with a ground clearance of 270mm, the Wild One Max is not a full-on off-roader. However, it boasts decent breakover and departure angles, ensuring it can handle rough terrains with ease. Optional features like a windscreen, wipers, and doors add to its versatility. Though the interior is minimal, with only a dashboard of sorts, it offers all the necessary elements for an enjoyable ride.
Comfort and Safety
In terms of comfort, the Tamiya Wild One Max incorporates high-quality components sourced from reputable brands. The seats are manufactured by Cobra, providing ample support and cushioning for drivers and passengers. The detachable steering wheel from Sparco adds an extra level of convenience and customization.
Durability and Functionality
Rugged and durable, the Wild One Max boasts dampers from Bilstein and springs from Eibach. Its double wishbone front suspension ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, even on challenging terrains. The 5-inch digital display from Wrth serves as an efficient dashboard, displaying all the essential information you need. The switchgear is even marine grade, allowing you to hose down the interior if it gets seriously muddy.
Road Legal Compliance
The Tamiya Wild One Max complies with L7e regulations, making it road legal and technically classified as a quadricycle. With a power output of 38bhp and weighing in at 500kg, this vehicle is all about fun and excitement while still adhering to necessary safety standards.
To sum it up, the Tamiya Wild One Max is a thrilling, eco-friendly commuter vehicle that offers a unique and exhilarating driving experience. With its sturdy build, comfortable interior, and compliance with safety regulations, this vehicle is ready to take on any adventure you throw at it. So buckle up and get ready for the ride of a lifetime with the Tamiya Wild One Max!
Power and Performance
The Tamiya Wild One Max boasts a 4-kilowatt hour battery pack, which may not sound like much, but its 48-volt power supply ensures both safety and ease of maintenance. Despite its lower voltage, this does limit the vehicle’s performance potential to some extent. Nevertheless, the rear-mounted water-cooled electric motor delivers a modest yet respectable peak power of 38 brake horsepower. Considering that the Wild One Max weighs in at just 500kg, this power output should be more than sufficient for a thrilling ride.
Braking and Range
Equipped with Brembo brakes, the Wild One Max can reach speeds of around 50mph at maximum capacity. On the road, it offers a decent range of approximately 125 miles, while off-road adventures can nudge it to about 65 miles, depending on the level of tomfoolery and the demand placed on the vehicle.
A Thrilling Ride
Taking this electric off-roader for a spin is a whole new level of exhilaration. The Wild One Max handles like a dream, offering fantastic steering and sharp responses. Its adjustable Bilsteins are initially set up to provide a soft and comfortable ride, resulting in smooth cornering and some predictable understeer. However, this understeer can be easily and effectively overcome by unleashing the full power of the motor and summoning the spirit of rally legend Colin McRae.
Unleashing the Wild One MAX
Once you experience the raw power of this electric beast, you’ll find it difficult to resist pushing its limits. Clicking the power button and engaging the transmission is as simple as can be. The Wild One Max responds instantly, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the driving experience. It handles with finesse, making every twist and turn a joyous affair.
A Borderline Genius
The Tamiya Wild One Max is more than just another electric car; it is a stroke of brilliance. The craftsmanship is evident in every aspect of its design. Admittedly, it does come with a price tag of £35,000, excluding VAT, but the value it offers is well worth the expense. From its impressive performance capabilities to its impeccable construction, the Wild One Max sets a new benchmark in the world of electric off-roading. Whether you’re a veteran thrill-seeker or a newbie to the off-road scene, this vehicle promises an unforgettable adventure.
Unveiling the Tamiya Wild One Max
Driving around a rally track and talking about VAT seems like an unusual combination. Yet, here I am, behind the wheel of the Tamiya Wild One Max, contemplating the price tag of this extraordinary machine. At first glance, one might dismiss it as a mere toy, but The Little Car Company has gone above and beyond to ensure that this vehicle delivers a truly remarkable experience. The feel-good factor is undeniable, with nostalgia and excitement intertwining in a way that is too hard to resist.
A Journey of Electric Evolution
As I take in the exhilarating drive, memories of electric cars from my youth flood back. They were humble milk floats, trundling along with their monotonous charm. Fast forward to the present day, and the Tamiya Wild One Max’s performance leaves those outdated vehicles in the dust. Oddly enough, the more speed it attains, the smoother the ride becomes, leaving me yearning for just a little more power. Nonetheless, this car is a true masterclass in providing entertainment while maintaining a lightweight design.
Unleashing the Wild Side
Even if you’re not on a rally course, the Tamiya Wild One Max thrives on lift-off oversteer. It’s almost outrageous how much fun can be had behind the wheel, pushing the limits of this incredible machine. Of course, it begs the question: do you really need to drive it this way? Many owners might prefer a tamer approach, but if money weren’t an obstacle, I would be here at the track every week. I can confidently say that this is the most fun I’ve ever had with a vehicle boasting a mere 38 brake horsepower.
An Unexpected Discovery
Amidst the mud splatters and adrenaline rush, did you know? Yoshio Tamiya, the visionary behind this brand, was awarded the Fifth Order of the Sacred Treasure by the Japanese government in 1976. It’s amusing to think that the Wild One, a symbol of sheer enjoyment, continues to live on with such honor and distinction.
The experience of driving the Tamiya Wild One Max has left me feeling perplexed yet utterly captivated. Its ability to ignite joy and unleash a sense of adventure is truly unrivaled. So, if you have a spare 35 grand and a desire for unparalleled fun, I implore you to embark on your journey with this 500kg wonder. After all, the equation is simple: 38bhp + 500kg = FUN.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Tamiya Wild One Max embodies the childhood dream of many enthusiasts who grew up marveling at the radio control cars and their intricate designs. With its real-life size and improved features, this full-size version offers an extraordinary driving experience. Whether you were a Tamiya fan growing up or simply appreciate the ingenuity behind these miniature cars, the Wild One Max is sure to impress. Get ready to unleash your inner child and embrace the excitement that this iconic off-roader has to offer.