Topic: On The Bench - CHEAP Slot Cars?
As a track owner and occasional NASTE race host, I am always looking for CHEAP, or should I say inexpensive slot cars. I have two primary objectives when I introduce a new class for racing here at TooBad Motorplex, or to introduce the NASTE IROC racers to a new type of slot car; 1. low cost to purchase or build, 2. simple rules for modifications. There was a time I could scratch build cars pretty cheap. I built and sold the original NASTE Chassis cars using Radioshack motors that were a mere $3.49 each, and rubber rear tires that were $1.50 a pair. I sold the complete brass chassis cars for $15.00 less bodies. Racers were able to purchase new model kits for bosies for $5.00 to $8.00 on sale at that time. The total cost of a car was approximately $23.00, less paint of course.
That was almost 20 years ago, and I am now of the opinion there are NO cheap slot cars to be built anymore! Now days just the cost of the running gear, axles, gears, guide flag, and wheels will cost you at least $15.00. That doesn't even include the cost of the brass, which is substantially more expensive now days! What I have learned over the past few years is; the best way to build a cheap car, is to start with a complete cheap car!
There are many potential cheap project cars to start with. Mainly what I look for in a potential project car is; good parts for a chassis, or a nice useable body. Good candidates that can be picked up cheap are the Parma and Champion RTR cars, such as 1/32 Womps and 1/24 Flexi's. If you can buy used cars in a large lot it will reduce the cost per car even more. If that requires more initial cash outlay than you want look for a partner or partners to divide the lot with. I shoot for an initial car cost of $20 or less.
