The Taiyo Porsche 911 Speedster is a 1/20 scale radio control model manufactured by Taiyo (Japan) and released into the global market in 1989.
A beautiful looking model, and in my opinion one of Taiyo's best real-car designs with a great level of internal and external details for a model made in 1989. Most of all, it's not overdone in stickers like the 8xAA version sadly is.
Features and Performance
Fortunately, this is not another 4xAA lazy roller, with a decent 6xAA battery compartment, though it's a real shame they didn't do it justice with a proper 8xAA 9.6V Turbo.
As with all decently powered Taiyo/Tyco RC models, adding the slick tires was a brilliant move as they are SO much fun indoors on a smooth surface - much like a modern RC drift model.
Thankfully that's already been done in the 1988 Tyco Turbo Porsche 911, and the older 1987 Taiyo Turbo Porsche 911 Cabriolet.
The overall model is superbly well made in Japan, with a good quality controller, and the usual dual speed gearbox.
Recommendation
Overall this is a great looking model that performs well indoors, and if you're able to get your hands on one we'd not recommend against it, especially if you're looking for something to look pretty on the shelf.
That said, some of these older Taiyos often have passive steering which means the steering only works when the model is moving (forward or backwards) which can be a pain in tight spaces. We've not yet worked out a formula for which ones have passive or active, and it may just depend when y our model was made.
If that bothers you, go for a Tyco version which all seem to have active steering, though with US prices you'll be paying a lot more for it.
Looking for something else?
Click here to see all the other Taiyo and Tyco Porsche RC cars.
