Mini line-up is big on fun

For the off-road fan, there is the Desert Gator (far right) which loves to jump and ‘fly’. It has a tough plastic chassis and is well balanced – ideal for challenging surfaces. Eighties fav­our­ite the Vanessa’s Lunch Box van (left) has been updated, with an electronic speed controller for fine throttle adjustment and improved suspension.

With big wheels and high ground clearance, it’s equally at home on the rough or tarmac. But with a short chassis and punchy motor, wheelies are all too easy. The final newcomer is Tamiya’s first drift car, complete with LED lights. You’ll soon be adept at long slides, spins, turns and doughnuts with the Drift Spec Nismo Copper­mix (centre).

Prices start at £68 for the Lunch Box, the Gator is £85 and Nismo £110. Add around £90 for the radio, battery and charger, while XB ready-built versions of these cars range from £160 to £199.

Tamiya radio-controlled cars, price: from £68, rating: 4/5, buy from: 01908 605686, www.tamiya.com