Skip advert
Advertisement

Tamiya Ford Escort Cosworth XBS radio control car

Pint-sized retro Ford Escort rally racer reviewed

Tamiya Ford Escort Cosworth XBS

Price: £199.99

Rally fans rejoice. Radio control car giant Tamiya has launched a ready-to-run 1:10-scale version of Ford’s legendary Escort Cosworth.

It offers everything you need to get started, including batteries and chargers. While users familiar with traditional two-stick controllers may be disappointed with the pistol transmitter, it’s accurate and allows precise movements. Simply squeeze the trigger, and the Cossie takes off, with the tyre-like control allowing you to steer.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The TT-01 four-wheel-drive chassis is nimble on dust, dirt, tarmac and carpet, although you’ll need plenty of space, as the Ford can pick up some serious speed. Our only criticism is that engaging reverse takes two backwards clicks of the throttle, instead of one.

Other than that, the only problem we had was running out of space! The level of detail is superb, with 1998 Monte Carlo Rally stickers adorning the sturdy bodyshell. Securing pins keep the shell on the chassis, although they’re easy to remove when replacing the battery. So this Tamiya is a brilliant – and fun – buy.

Verdict

Rating: ★★★★
What is it?
Scaled-down radio control racing version of Juha Kankkunen's Monte Carlo rally car.
Problems?
Pistol grip can be awkward, clunky reverse gear.
Why buy?
Fast, brilliant handling, great detail, price.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £2,549 off RRP*Used from £11,890
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,721 off RRP*Used from £8,800
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,773 off RRP*Used from £15,876
MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £6,040 off RRP*Used from £12,700
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Volvo EM90 2025 review: the ultimate SUV killer
Volvo EM90 - front

New Volvo EM90 2025 review: the ultimate SUV killer

Volvo has made an ultra-luxurious van. Intrigued? You should be, but sadly it’s for China only
Road tests
16 Jun 2025
New Peugeot 208 GTi: electric hot hatch gets stunning looks and plenty of power
Peugeot E-208 GTi - reveal front

New Peugeot 208 GTi: electric hot hatch gets stunning looks and plenty of power

Hot Peugeot E-208 gets racier styling, 276bhp and does 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds
News
13 Jun 2025
Smart Roadster could return as an electric Mazda MX-5 rival
Smart Roadster exclusive image

Smart Roadster could return as an electric Mazda MX-5 rival

The Smart Roadster could be set for a comeback and our exclusive image previews how it could look
News
16 Jun 2025