The Dickie Formel 1 Grand Prix is a radio controlled Formula One car, manufactured by Taiyo Toys (Japan), and released into the German and wider European market by Dickie Toys in 1987.
It is a variant of the Taiyo Super Fight F1 (Single Motor version) made for the German market, with minor adjustments to radio frequencies and branding for the local distributor Dickie Toys, who still exists to this day.
Features and Performance
With one fewer engine, the performance remains impressive thanks to its lightweight build, stable center of gravity, and high-grip tires.
Changes to frequency are not uncommon in Taiyo vehicles when imported into other countries. For example, all Taiyo / Tyco shipped to the United Kingdom used 40Mhz as the second car frequency, instead of the 49Mhz seen most other places. In the case of the Formul 1, its first car frequency is identified as 27.105Mhz on the frequency sticker, adjusted slightly to meet local regulations.
When using its intended 8 x AA Ni-Cd batteries or modern NiMH variants, it essentially acts like a Tyco 9.6V Turbo. If you opt for contemporary Alkaline batteries, it can output a full 12 volts. However, be cautious not to push it too much; the engine can overheat, especially in hot weather, as early Taiyo models lack heatsinks.
Here's a video showcasing an identical model, the Taiyo Super Fight F1, on YouTube.
Known Issues
Many slick tires manufactured by Taiyo in the 1980s face issues now with rubber rot, where they slowly decompose and turn into a dough-like consistency, which destroys the usability of the car. Not all tires are affected, though I'm not sure if its a batch issue, or a conditions/storage issue. To identify the problem look for a rough textured splotchy surface pattern, though if it's persisted for any length of time the tire will already show physical signs of deformation. Avoid those cars unless you wish to source new tires which isn't something I've had any luck with myself.
always be checked for signs of rubber rot when buying.
Apart from that, since this is one of the first 'modern era' Taiyo RC cars, it's likely the Dickie will have passive steering (I don't have a Dickie to check, but I know my Taiyo is passive). This means that the steering only works while the motor is running, which is as designed, however can feel strange and be less precise when operating in smaller spaces. Around 1989-1990 this changed (with all Tyco models), however if you're into collecting Taiyo RC this is just something you'll need to live with - though it is thought to be a solvable problem, we've not quite worked it out yet.
Availability and Collectability
If this was a toy you owned or desired as a child, then it may hold a great deal of nostalgia for you, though I'm unclear just how popular it is generally amongst German or European collectors.
As with all local versions of Taiyo RC cars (e.g. Metro RC Australia, IRWIN Canada) these don't appear for sale very often, at least not online.
Other than the issue with the slick tires (which are fantastic if they're in good condition!), this is an excellent, high quality radio control car that is fun to drive, great to look at, and speaks for a time where Made in Japan was the best thing you could expect to see on any of your RC toys.
