Tamiya F104
We're sure the Tamiya F104 will become one of your favorites: it's the closest you'll get to the feeling of driving a Formula 1 car.
By Elite Radio Control teamUpdated 4 min read
Part of the guide: Tamiya RC cars

Tamiya F104: a Formula 1 car in your hands
If you love Formula 1 racing and radio-controlled cars too, stick around, because we’re going to take a close look at one of the standout models in RC, the Tamiya F104.
The first thing that strikes you about this scale RC car is how realistic it is compared with the full-size car. But what if we told you it even uses some of the materials found in the cars of motorsport’s top class? Among them are titanium, magnesium and carbon fiber.
Tamiya F104 overview
As we mentioned, the first impression this Tamiya gives is one of speed, and of its incredible resemblance to the full-size car that races in Formula 1. The body is designed to match the original car, including the air intakes that make it more aerodynamic and keep drag to a minimum.
This is one of the designs that both kids and adults love most, thanks to its incredible detail, which makes you feel like you’re looking at a real race car. The chassis is very light and also aerodynamic, which always makes for a very responsive, nimble driving feel.
Although the Tamiya F104 is on the large side, it’s ideal for kids from 6 to 8 years old, as well as for older fans who love Formula 1 for its incredible realism.
Tamiya F104 details
Its tires are made of synthetic rubber, which gives them great grip, and they look very realistic. The Tamiya F104’s chassis sits very low, which allows for high speeds and stability, but you can only run it on flat, smooth surfaces, not on uneven ground.
The box includes self-adhesive stickers so you can decorate the body however you like, which is a lot of fun and gives you complete freedom to customize it to your taste.
The Tamiya F104 comes with a powerful 540 brushed motor, which gives you the feeling you need to believe you’re driving a Formula 1 car. It uses a spur and pinion gear. This fine-tooth gearing design allows for a more precise mesh, which certainly helps improve the RC car’s acceleration and efficiency.
Buying a Tamiya F104
Buying a Tamiya F104 RC car means diving into the nostalgia and fine detail of one of the most iconic models in the world of RC motorsport. Inspired by the legendary Formula 1 single-seaters, the Tamiya F104 is an impressive replica with exceptional build quality.
From its aerodynamic design to its sophisticated suspension, this RC car captures the essence of the speed and elegance of Formula 1 racing. Tamiya, known for its focus on authenticity and craftsmanship, has created a model that combines a realistic driving experience with the thrill of piloting a miniature single-seater.
If you love racing and want to experience the thrill of driving an iconic race car, the Tamiya F104 is an exceptional choice to take to the track and enjoy speed in your own unique and exciting RC experience.
Tamiya F104 specs
Below you’ll find the technical details of this Tamiya model, the F104, plus what comes in the standard package.
- 1/10 scale.
- Polycarbonate body.
- Realistic F104 chassis design.
- 540 brushed electric motor.
- Two-wheel drive (2WD).
- Very realistic synthetic-rubber tires.
- Build kit.
- Includes extra parts so you can build alternative sections.
- Also required: ESC, 7.2 V battery, battery charger and a 2-channel radio.
- To paint the body, you’ll also need Tamiya polycarbonate paint.
Here’s a photo so you can see the chassis and the parts included in the build kit.

Tamiya F104 pros
Here are some of the advantages you’ll find in this very realistic F104 from the Japanese brand Tamiya.
- Very realistic looks: it gives the impression of a real Formula 1 car.
- Its handling will certainly give you an incredible driving experience.
- The price is fair for the range it sits in.
- Accessories and spare parts are affordable.
- Very durable, so you can run it for a good few years without problems.
- You can customize and modify it to suit your taste.
- Adjustable ride height.
Tamiya F104 cons
Like every RC car we review on this site, this model also has some drawbacks, although its pros clearly outnumber them.
- The body doesn’t come painted from the factory.
- Paint for the body has to be bought separately.
- It’s large, so you can’t run it in tight spaces.
- It doesn’t include a battery charger.
- You need a two-channel receiver and an ESC for the motor.
- It can’t be used on uneven ground, only on flat tracks.
- Although the body is tough, it can break easily if it takes a hard hit.
Our verdict on the Tamiya F104
If you’re a Formula 1 fan, this model will no doubt be one of your favorites. Its design and details make the F104 look almost identical to the full-size Formula 1 cars.
This model’s performance and functionality hold their own against higher-end models, which will delight kids and adults alike.
We have no doubt that once you get the chance to drive a Tamiya F104, you’ll be hooked on the experience, whether or not you’re a Formula 1 fan. It’s the closest you’ll get to the feeling of driving a full-size professional race car.
Tamiya F104 accessories and spare parts
One of the big advantages of this miniature Tamiya F104 is the number of accessories available on the market. It’s also worth pointing out how many spare parts are within reach, so replacing a part shouldn’t be a worry.
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