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One of the most commonly asked questions an individual will have when starting out in the exciting world of radio control planes and cars is: Which is better, gas or electric?

This is a highly debated subject amongst radio control enthusiast, as there are many legitimate arguments to be made for both sides. Both types have been around for a long time and have many models to choose from within each. Many gas and electric models can reach top speeds of 50+ miles per hour. Perhaps the best thing to do is to present the pros and cons of each and allow you to decide for yourself.

Electric Models: For someone whom is just starting out, an electric model can be an ideal choice. The biggest reason is they require less maintenance. Electric models have become more popular in recent years due to advances in technology, specifically the development of brushless motors and Lithium-Ion Polymer (LiPo) batteries, allowing electric models to finally have the power and speed of gas models. Clean up is minimal as the engine is electric and produces no exhaust, making electrical models more environmentally friendly then their counterparts. Electric models are also very quiet in comparison to Nitro models. This will make your neighbor very happy! One downside however is the fact that you typically have to charge the battery 30 – 40 minutes to get 7 – 10 minutes of run time. To get around this, many people will carry around a portable battery charger and have two or three battery packs they can rotate in and out, allowing them more continuous runtime. Price ranges for LiPo battery packs vary from $30 – $40.

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Nitro Models: These vehicles are not powered by actual gasoline as most people think. Instead, their fuel is comprised of a percentage of highly combustible nitro-methane dissolved in methanol (methyl alcohol) and a generous quantity of lubricating oil. Nitro models have a more complex engine, usually a 2-stroke, which requires the carburetor to be tuned with respect to temperature and humidity changes. Some engines hold their tune well while others have to be adjusted frequently. You have to keep a very close eye on engine temperature as to avoid overheating that can cause permanent damage. It is a good practice to clean and flush the motor with after-run oil after each use in order to avoid moisture accumulation, and to keep the engine in top condition. Nitro models can get VERY dirty. As the engine burns the liquid fuel onboard it creates an oily exhaust which inevitably ends up on your R.C. vehicle and needs to be cleaned up, typically after each use. The only “re-charge” time you have with Nitro models is however long it takes you to re-fuel and a typical tank full of fuel will get you 20 – 25 minutes of runtime, depending on driving style and size of tank. One gallon of nitro fuel ranges in price from $20 – $30. You can get about 50 – 60 tanks out of 1 gallon of nitro fuel if you have a 2 to 2.5 oz. tank.

Making the right choice between an electric and a nitro vehicle can provide many years of excitement in the R.C. hobby. Making the wrong choice could saddle you with an expensive toy that just sits unused in the garage. The right choice will ultimately come down to you and your personal preferences. Many people enjoy rolling up their sleeves and getting their hands a little dirty and don’t mind the mechanical challenges associated with a nitro fueled model. Other people may not have the time or desire to work on the engines and are contempt with simply plugging in the battery pack into the charger and finding something else to do while they wait. Let your mechanical abilities and personal schedule guide you in making your decision.