Of course, as always, nothing is that cheap in life, especially a Ford Performance Raptor R supercharged V8 pickup truck. So, there is a catch. This one here is pretty obvious - we are dealing with Traxxas' latest release, the VXL-3s Raptor R Pro Scale model.
Sure, we have recently heard about a California resident who bought a new Tesla Model 3 (the actual EV, not a scale model) for just $13,620, and there was a sane explanation about how he did it. Of course, that only applied to him, in particular, and to the uniqueness of his financial status. As such, it's best if we seek other sources of bargains.
If you want to make yourself just as happy as your automotive-loving kids, then perhaps investing a bit more than 500 greenbacks won't be such a bad deal after all. Sure, the missus might get you the present of a week's worth of sleeping on the couch when she hears you just pre-ordered 'a toy.' But, as always, any Traxxas is much more than that.
It has been a while since we last discussed this scale model company – but it's summer, and those who aren't on vacation need something to do with their free time, right? So, without further ado, let us check out the latest addition to the brand's Pro Scale lineup, the VXL-3s-equipped Ford Performance F-150 Raptor R.
"Superb scale detail and proportion combine with 4x4 traction and extreme Velineon brushless horsepower to faithfully capture the Raptor R driving experience," says Traxxas, and we believe them. The characteristics include a Slash 4x4 VXL classic chassis that was extended from a 12.8-inch (324 mm) to a 15.1-inch (384 mm) wheelbase for better drivability, the company's proven 4x4 drivetrain, a powerful 3500 kV Velineon brushless motor, and the Velineon VXL-3s electronic speed control (ESC) technology.
The officially licensed Ford F-150 Raptor R Pro Scale body is clipless, there's an extreme Heavy Duty upgrade kit already installed, and the VXL-3s ESC is waterproof, among many others – like the officially licensed BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires. The TQi 2.4GHz high output radio system should ensure maximum range – and probably you're going to need it since the new scale model is capable of speeds of more than 60 mph (96 kph) with the LiPo battery.
And we all know that when it comes to scale models, you can easily multiply that by a factor of ten to get the real feel plus the fun factor right. Frankly, if you love the great outdoors and don't have money for the genuine high-performance Raptor R pickup truck – which is no less than $76,775 without any optional goodies – this Pro Scale model sure sounds like the next best thing! Oh, and I almost forgot, if you rep-order the truck right now, first deliveries are pegged starting with August 4.
Aurel has aimed high all his life (literally, at 16 he was flying gliders all by himself) so in 2006 he switched careers and got hired as a writer at his favorite magazine. Since then, his work has been published both by print and online outlets, most recently right here, on autoevolution. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News