Why I Chose the TT-02 Base Kit

This was my first Tamiya kit, but not my first RC build. I wasn’t sure how much I’d like the TT-02 platform, so I wanted to keep the initial cost down.

I also knew I wanted to run it on dirt with rally tires, so I chose the Celica GT-Four ST165 TT-02 Base Kit. The rally-style body fit the direction I wanted to take the car.

A few things stood out:

• Price: The Base Kit was a cheaper way to try the TT-02 without paying for upgrades I wasn’t sure I needed.
• Rally body: The Celica GT-Four body was a big reason I chose this particular kit.
• Upgrades: The Base Kit comes with basic friction shocks and bushings, so I knew I’d probably upgrade some parts later.
• TT-02D Drift Spec: Looking back, the TT-02D probably would have been the better starting point for the upgraded parts, including oil shocks, full ball bearings, an aluminum motor heat sink, and a Sport-Tuned motor.
• The trade-off: The TT-02D doesn’t come with the rally-style body I wanted, which was a big part of the reason I chose the Celica kit.

What I Learned: The Base Kit made sense for trying the TT-02 without spending too much upfront, but I probably would have started with a higher-spec chassis.

What I Used: TAMIYA 1/10 Toyota Celica GT-Four ST165 TT-02 TAM58718A

If I Did It Again:

• Recommended 1: TT-02D Drift Spec
• Recommended 2: TT-02R Race Spec — No Motor or ESC