How Big Is a 1/5 Scale RC Car?
Find out how big 1:5 scale RC cars are. Get ready for some big-time fun with these remote-control machines!
By Elite Radio Control teamUpdated 3 min read
Part of the guide: RC car scales

1/5 scale RC cars are scaled-down vehicles that give RC enthusiasts a huge amount of fun. Their particular size makes them unique, and it also makes them a good fit for certain kinds of racing and driving spots.
If you’re thinking about getting an RC vehicle this size, it’s important to know what to expect.
What size is a 1/5 scale RC car?
1/5 scale RC vehicles are generally between 25 and 30 in (64–76 cm) long. That makes them much bigger than typical RC vehicles, which are usually between 8 and 10 in (20–25 cm) long.
Because of their size, these vehicles also weigh much more than typical RC vehicles, which makes them better suited to outdoor racing or larger driving areas.
Advantages of a 1/5 scale RC car
- More durable: because of their size, these vehicles are much tougher than typical ones, which means they can take more hits and abuse without serious damage.
- More power: these vehicles also usually have a more powerful engine, which lets them reach higher speeds than typical RC vehicles.
- More realistic: 1/5 scale RC vehicles are much more realistic than typical RC vehicles, which gives them a much more authentic look.
Disadvantages of a 1/5 scale RC car
- Cost: these vehicles are usually much more expensive than typical RC vehicles, which puts them out of reach for hobbyists on a tight budget.
- Harder to handle: because of their size, these vehicles are much harder to handle than typical RC vehicles, so you’ll need more skill to control them.
- Heavier: these vehicles usually weigh much more than typical RC vehicles, which makes them harder to carry around or maneuver.
What are the dimensions of a 1/5 scale RC car?
The dimensions of a 1/5 scale RC car vary depending on the model and manufacturer.
In general, cars in this scale are between 20 and 24 in (500–600 mm) long, 10.5 to 11.5 in (270–290 mm) wide and 6.5 to 7.5 in (170–190 mm) tall, and they weigh between 9 and 13 lb (4–6 kg).
What are the benefits of driving a 1/5 scale RC car compared with other sizes?
1/5 scale RC cars have several benefits over other sizes. These include:
- Bigger size: these cars have a larger footprint, which gives them better performance, such as better weight distribution, more stability and improved handling.
- More power: these cars have more power on tap thanks to their bigger engines, which lets them accelerate and brake more precisely and reach higher speeds.
- More durable: the size of these cars allows for higher-quality components than smaller-scale cars, which makes them more resistant to crashes and the elements.
- More realistic: the larger scale gives these cars a more realistic look and handling, which makes them more fun to drive.
In short, 1/5 scale RC cars offer a better driving experience thanks to their better performance, durability, realism and power.
What are the size-related specs of a 1/5 scale RC car?
The size-related specs of a 1/5 scale RC car include a length of about 40 to 45 in (100–115 cm), a width of about 17 to 18 in (43–46 cm) and a weight of about 15 to 20 lb (7–9 kg). These RC cars also have a wheelbase of about 25 to 30 in (64–76 cm) and a ground clearance of about 5 to 6 in (13–15 cm).
What is the average size of a 1/5 scale RC car?
The average 1/5 scale RC car is about 20 in (50 cm) long, 9 in (23 cm) wide and 9.5 in (24 cm) tall. These sizes can vary slightly depending on the model and brand.
How big is a 1/5 scale RC car compared with other RC car sizes?
A 1/5 scale RC car is much bigger than other RC car sizes. This scale is generally between 15 and 20 in (38–51 cm) long, which makes it much bigger than most 1/10 and 1/18 scale RC cars. That makes them well suited to racing on larger terrain, and they can reach much higher speeds than other sizes of RC car.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 1/5 scale RC cars have a particular size that makes them unique. These vehicles have a number of advantages, such as their greater durability and power, but they also have some disadvantages, such as their cost and their extra weight.
If you’re thinking about getting an RC vehicle this size, it’s important to know its characteristics so you can make an informed decision.
Related guides

Free tool
Gas-Oil Mix Calculator for 2-Stroke RC Engines
How much 2-stroke oil to add to the gas for your 1/5 scale RC car, based on the ratio your engine calls for.
Free calculator

RC cars
How Big Is a 1/8 Scale RC Car?
Find out the real size of 1/8 scale RC cars and be amazed by their incredible detail. Get ready for some big-time fun!
2 min read

RC cars
How Big Is a 1/18 Scale RC Car?
Find out how big a 1/18 scale RC car is and be surprised by its size in this fun guide.
3 min read

RC cars
How Big Is a 1/12 Scale RC Car?
Find out how big a 1/12 scale RC car really is, and get ready for some big fun in a small package.
3 min read

RC cars
Nitro and Gas RC Cars: How They Work and How to Choose Yours
The difference between nitro and gas, common scales, what you need to start the engine, how to maintain them and what to consider before buying your fuel-powered RC car.
5 min read