The Tyco Super Scorcher is a 1/18 radio controlled car manufactured by Taiyo (Japan), and released into the US, UK, and other markets worldwide in 1997.
A re-release of the original Mini Scorcher / Mini Cyclone, which itself was a smaller version of the full size 1993 Tyco Scorcher.
So what’s Super about it?
While I must admit I do not own a Super Scorcher, I cannot see any indication that it’s anything other than a Scorcher 4×6 / Mini Cyclone with bodacious late 90s fluro styling, and some awesome box artwork.
And honestly, that’s just fine!
Features and Performance
Anyone who has driven a Scorcher knows, these things are wild, plenty of fun. Younger kids who can’t control it well will be satisfied just putting both sticks in opposite directions and watching it spin at warp speed.
Older kids like myself will have fun getting the hang of controls, particularly turning and navigating around with the tank-like movement. And much like a tank, it will pretty much go over anything you put in its way, so its great for pushing boxes, crushing legos, and running into your sisters shins, just to name a few favorites. The Super Scorcher has the following specifications:
- 6.0v Jet Turbo Power Pack
- 6 Large ‘Street’ Tires as used in the Lamborghini
- 4 Wheels Driven (4×6)
- Twin Mabuchi RS-260* Motors
- Full Function Forward/Backward/Spin Left/Spin Right
*I’ve not yet disassembled a Super Scorcher, so I cannot confirm RS-260 however it seems most likely.
Recommendation
While you may own a larger Scorcher, or even a 4×6/Mini Scorcher, like me you’ll be loving the late 90s-ness of this thing.
Those black/yellow Tyco boxes with the incredible artwork on the front, the bright fluro colors, the Super Scorcher is different enough to the other models that it’s worth adding to your collection, particularly if you have the others, or are into this era of Tyco.
It’s also interesting to note that 1997 was the last time Tyco would release a vehicle on their own, without big brother Mattel looking over their shoulders, and just a few years later clearing out the entire New Jersey HQ and bringing the whole show to an end.