Slot Car FAQ

Slot Car FAQs

WHAT IS A 1:32 SLOT CAR?
A 1:32 slot car is the most popular size of slot car. They are incredibly realistic scaled down version of racing cars and classic cars. The average length of a 1:32 car is about 5-6 inches long. It is possible to race with 1:24 slot cars as well, but these will need a specific track. So if you are thinking about buying your first track, you should get a 1:32. You have much more choice with types of track and models of car.

HOW CAN I IMPROVE THE PERFORMANCE OF MY SLOT CAR?
Every driver wants to be the best and any improvement you can make to your slot car is really going to help your driving. Take a look at your tires; you may want to replace the factory tires with silicone. If you cannot do that, they take some sandpaper and sand down the tires. This is going to help the wheels dig into the track and give you superior grip.

You may also want to alter the magnet on the base of your car. Flip your car upside down and you will see the magnet. In some cars this is attached to the car by screws. Turn these screws about ¼ of a turn and then try your car on the track. You will find that it grips better and holds the corners better as well. You may need to tinker with the magnet a little bit. Too much and the car may drag on the track and this is going to damage your motor.

I AM THINKING ABOUT BUYING A SLOT CAR TRACK, WHAT TYPE DO YOU RECOMMEND?
It depends on how much space you have available. There are digital tracks that can race up to eight cars on just two lanes, so you will need much less space. The disadvantage with these tracks is that there are not as many cars available and more things can go wrong with the track.

If you are the type that will enjoy fixing up the cars and making improvements, you will want an analog track. Digital cars are more complex and not so easy to fix and improve. We suggest starting with an analog track and if you want to try out digital at a later date, you can upgrade the track and cars.

HOW MUCH SPACE DO I NEED TO SET UP A COOL 1:32 SLOT CAR RACE TRACK?
Not as much as you may think. It is possible to construct a challenging and intricate track on something the size of a pool table. There are lots of plans and layout designs available that other enthusiasts have been kind enough to share. Take a look at other peoples designs, get some inspiration and you will be surprised at how challenging you can make a track with the minimal amount of space.