The Metro Micro Bandit is a miniature version of the larger Bandit radio controlled car, manufactured by Taiyo Japan, and released in the Australian and New Zealand markets in 1993.
Note: Release date of 1993 was confirmed via court documents detailing Metro/PlayCorp product releases.
Features and Performance
As a 'dreaded' reverse-turn model, the features and performance are ideal for a younger child, who would find a full function car with its multiple axis confusing.
With a single gear, and a small (possibly Mabuchi FA130R) motor the car can accelerate forward, and in reverse it will turn 90 degrees so you may orient it in a different direction. There is no steering.
Without more photos of a Metro version, here is the Tyco Micro Bandit which is the same except for the Tyco logo.
Availability and Collectability
While it's no full size Bandit, this Micro version has the luxury of being related in name and design to one of the most popular radio controlled cars of all time, the Tyco Bandit - likely also released in Australia as the Metro Bandit, but so far I've not seen one).
As a result, it's far more collectable and desirable than similar RC cars released with the same chassis, especially if you can find one in good condition with its box. Even better, Micro cars are infinitely more affordable than full size or even mini models, and go well alongside the mini and full size Bandit in a collection.
Photo Credits: Thank you to M. Pursell for these photos of his lovely Metro Micro Bandit, ensuring we don't have to display the Tyco versions anymore! This makes me very happy 🙂
