Tamiya RC 1/12 Lamborghini Cheetah (2026)
The iconic Lamborghini Cheetah prototype returns as a Tamiya R/C assembly kit, faithfully recreating the experimental all-terrain vehicle with updates designed to enhance performance for modern-day hobbyists. First unveiled at the 1977 Geneva Motor Show, the Cheetah was developed as a military vehicle for the U.S. market and featured an unusual rear-mounted 5.9-liter Chrysler V8, 3-speed automatic transmission and limited-slip differential.
Please note this is an unassembled kit requiring assembly; it ships as a build-it-yourself kit and does not arrive pre-built or ready to run.
The Cheetah project originated from a collaboration with American company MTI (Mobility Technology International), with the prototype initially assembled in the United States before being completed at Lamborghini's facilities in Italy. Although it never entered production, the Cheetah provided valuable technical experience for Lamborghini and served as an experimental foundation for the development of later high-performance off-road vehicles, including the Lamborghini LM002.
Special Features
- R/C model assembly kit measuring 400mm in length, 174mm in width and 140mm in height.
- Durable styrene plastic body moulded in PS Desert Yellow realistically recreates the angular, doorless form of the Cheetah prototype.
- Detailed interior features include the meter panel, seats, fire extinguisher and rear plate mesh.
- Body is mounted inside at the front and rear for a more realistic appearance.
- Front and rear double wishbone suspension features upper and lower H-arms with adjustable flat-mounted, longitudinal metal torsion bar springs.
- Driver figure included.
- 2WD chassis uses a lightweight, rigid duralumin U-shaped plate with a centrally mounted lengthwise battery pack and rear-mounted motor.
- Receiver and ESC are positioned on either side in duralumin rear R/C equipment trays for optimum balance.
- Sealed gearbox helps prevent dust and small stones from entering the model.
- Four-wheel independent double wishbone suspension uses four adjustable flat-mounted, longitudinal metal torsion bar springs.
- Updated semi-pneumatic tyres feature a flat chevron tread pattern and are paired with durable three-piece wheels secured to the wheel hubs with five screws.
- Duralumin front under guard helps protect the model during crashes.
- Includes a 540-brushed type motor and HobbyWing THW 1060 Brushed Motor ESC.
What's in the Box
- Styrene plastic Lamborghini Cheetah body
- 2WD chassis components
- Driver figure
- Metal torsion bar springs
- Three-piece wheels
- Semi-pneumatic tyres
- 540-brushed type motor
- HobbyWing THW 1060 Brushed Motor ESC (2-3S)
What You'll Need
- 2-channel radio
- Steering servo
- 7.2-7.4volt battery
- Compatible battery charger
- Tamiya TS and acrylic paints
Why You'll Love It
The Tamiya Lamborghini Cheetah combines an unusual piece of Lamborghini history with a distinctive off-road R/C chassis. Its angular body, detailed interior and included driver figure capture the character of the original prototype, while the updated chassis features, sealed gearbox, independent suspension and revised tyres make it an engaging choice for modern R/C hobbyists.
