It may be niche, but slot cars are still alive and well. If you’re a fan of slot cars, then you know that these miniature race cars are still going strong.
There may not be as many slot car tracks around as there once were, but the die-hard fans keep the hobby alive.
Whether you’re new to slot cars or a seasoned pro, there’s still plenty to learn about these little cars. So keep reading as we discuss slot car brands, tracks, and accessories.
Slot Car Brands Comparison
Any slot car brand comparison should consider the long history of the hobby and the variety of options still available today. Ever since the late 60s, kids with the need for speed always aspired for these intricate car and track sets that come in various pieces and configurations.
It is also a popular past-time among hobbyists as far back as the 50s and was strangely played by them first. Sizes usually come in 1:24 and 1:32 scales, with options for 1:64 and 1:83.
Traditionally, they have an analog system with manual control pads operated by the players to operate their cars around the track.
Over time, the digital system has risen in popularity among hobbyists, able to simulate real race things like fuel needs and lap times, among others. Over time, brands had come and gone, and some stood the test of time.
Popular Slot Car Brands – The Beginning
Scalextric, a tried and tested brand from the UK, has manufactured numerous track and car sets over time, spanning decades. It had become so popular that it is now a general term for the slot car.
They started with rubber tracks in 1957 and then moved on to plastic in 1962 for their so-called Classic series, which was the default line until ’01. Classic-series track sets have a pair of spoon-shaped connectors in every segment and have analog controllers.
Sport replaced Classic in 2001, with deeper slots, smoother surfaces, and new connectors as modifications to the old set. In addition, their cars hail from different illustrious series, including Formula 1, WRC, WEC, and Super GT.
Sport Digital was established in ’04 to offer a more serious competition experience, with its array of add-ons designed to deepen the play.
The company was identified as more of a toy company. This, in turn, led to some criticism leveled at them. For example, the cars’ reliance on magnets, which did not work on copper-based tracks on club circuits.
Another criticism is that the knurled axles made it difficult to replace wheels and gears, making servicing challenges. Finally, the unique guide design is also a point of critique, also cited to be a challenge to replace once busted since only they have something similar.
Is Carerra the Best Slot Car Brand?
Carrera, a more contemporary brand, has quite the mucky history, which took a dark turn. Born in Germany, it shares its name with the real-life Carrera line of car manufacturer Porsche. Josef Neuheirl started the company in the 1920s when he moved to Fürth to formally start the business.
It was taken over by his son, Hermann, in 1956. He then launched the 1:24 line, the Carrera 124, and the 1:34 line, the Carrera Universal. However, the company suffered a slump in the 80s and 1985. Furthermore, the owner himself, Hermann Neuheirl, filed for bankruptcy, then committed suicide shortly afterward.
Kurt Hesse took over, but the company’s reputation suffered, with the brand losing its premium status. Things turned around in 1999 when a previous distributor from Austria, Stadlbauer, based in Salzburg, took over.
They went and re-launched the 1:24 and 1:34 lines as a premium product and soon turned digital, along with a new 1:43 line called Carrera Go!, which endears itself to children. As of late, they re-earned their place in the luxury department once more.
Carrera offers barrel rolls, jumps, and more on the theatrical side of speed. They carry toys from family-friendly franchises, such as Pixar’s Cars and Nintendo’s Mario Kart. Carrera usually is at home with the children.
However, adults often pass up the brand for the more serious Scalextric Sport. Carrera is also more beginner-friendly in track assembly and car operation, making it the choice for younger audiences.
Ninco And SCX Slot Car Brands
Ninco, a relatively new company, is a Spanish company that set up shop in 1993. They have 1:32 cars, reputed for detail compared to the others in the same division.
1998 saw them introduce their track system, which included five different curve pieces, offering more variety in layouts. However, the track system was reputed to be wider than Scalextric’s, accommodating more cars but taking more space than it should, proving a double-edged sword.
SCX, another Spanish company, is owned by Educa Borras. It is somewhat of a little brother to Scalextric, bearing the name in their own country. The Scalextric brand is Superslots. To add to the statement, SCX’s 1:34 line is a good fit for the Scalextric Classic-Line, as it is interchangeable.
Circuit racing need not be a breathtaking challenge. Indeed, you can enjoy all the thrills in the comfort of an indoor space. Whichever slot car brand you choose, all guarantee the thrill of a circuit race indoors. We hope this slot car brands comparison helps you decide which set is best for you.
What is the Best Slot Car Brand?
Several slot car brands are worth mentioning, but the best slot car brand would have to be Scalextric or Carerra. These two brands are the most popular and offer the best quality products.
Carrera is a more contemporary brand that offers a wide range of tracks and cars. They have become very popular recently, and their products are well made. Scalextric is a classic brand that has been around for many years. They offer a wide range of tracks and cars, and their products are well made.
So, which is the best slot car brand? It depends on what you are looking for. If you want a classic brand with a wide range of products, then Scalextric is the way to go. On the other hand, if you want a more contemporary brand with a wide range of products, then Carrera is the way to go.
Both brands offer high-quality products that will provide you with years of fun. So, it comes down to personal preference. Do some research and decide which brand is right for you. Whichever brand you choose, you are sure to have hours of fun racing your cars around the track.
Who Makes the Fastest 1/32 Slot Car?
The Mclaren 720S has a top speed of 720 hp and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds.
This makes it the fastest 1/32 slot car on the market.
Carrera makes a version of this car that McClaren officially licenses. This means it has all the same features and specs as the real thing. It even comes with working head and tail lights.
So, if you are looking for the fastest 1/32 slot car, then the McClaren 720S from Carrera is the one to get. It will provide you with hours of racing fun. Thanks for reading! We hope this article was helpful.
Carrera 30920 McLaren 720S GT3 1:32 Scale Digital Slot Car
How Fast Do Carerra Slot Cars Go?
Carerra Slot Cars can go 370 mph. This is because they use brushless motors, which are much more potent than the traditional brushed motors.
In addition to speed, Carerra slot cars are high-performance. You won’t be disappointed with their performance.
Is There Skill in Slot Car Racing?
Slot car racing is a sport that requires skill, strategy, and concentration. Like any sport, it takes practice to become good at it.
There are different techniques that you can use to race your car. The key is to practice and learn what works best for you. Then, as you become more experienced, you will develop your style and technique.
So, yes, there is skill involved in slot car racing. However, to be successful, you must put in the time and effort to practice and learn the different techniques.
What Voltage Are Carerra GO Slot Cars?
Carrera GO slot cars operate on 12 volts. This is the standard voltage for most electrical devices in the United States.
If you live in Europe, the voltage may be different. In that case, you will need to use a voltage converter.
Are Slot Cars Still a Thing?
The simple answer is, yes, slot cars are still a thing. They are as popular as ever and continue to be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Slot car racing is a fun and exciting hobby that the whole family can enjoy. It’s a great way to spend some quality time together. And, it’s a lot of fun!
So, if you are looking for a fun and exciting hobby, slot cars are still a thing. Thanks for reading! We hope this article was helpful.
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