Overview

The Tamiya F104 Pro II 1/10 Scale 2WD Formula One R/C Car Kit (TAM58652) represents a significant evolution in electric RC formula racing, bringing together cutting-edge chassis engineering with a strikingly authentic 2017 F1-inspired body design. This assembly kit is perfect for RC enthusiasts in the UK who demand precision, responsiveness, and genuine scale realism in their on-road racing machines. Whether you're an experienced RC driver looking to refine your skills or an intermediate hobbyist ready to step up to a serious formula racing platform, the F104 Pro II delivers the sharp, unforgiving driving experience that rewards smooth technique and punishes sloppy inputs — making it an ideal choice for those seeking to improve their overall RC car control.

Building on the legendary F104 Pro platform that has dominated on-road RC racing since 2009, the Pro II chassis incorporates numerous refinements and upgraded components that take the lightweight, direct-drive formula racing experience to new heights. The combination of a newly redesigned lower deck, advanced suspension geometry, and premium materials ensures that every aspect of the F104 Pro II has been optimised for maximum performance on smooth surfaces and racing tracks. The polycarbonate body is a work of art, faithfully capturing the dramatic styling changes introduced in the 2017 F1 season, complete with sharply angled nose sections, bulging side pontoons, and a complex front wing design that instantly identifies this as a serious formula racer.

This is not a ready-to-run RC car — the F104 Pro II is an assembly kit designed for builders who appreciate the satisfaction of constructing their own machine and understand the performance benefits that come from hands-on chassis setup and tuning. Once assembled, the F104 Pro II becomes a highly competitive on-road racing platform that punches far above its weight, requiring only modest motor power (even a silver can motor will provide an exciting challenge) to deliver thrilling performance on the track.

Key Features

• 2017 F1-Inspired Original Polycarbonate Body — The kit includes a beautifully detailed original body design based on current Formula 1 regulations and styling trends, featuring a sharp slanting nose, bulging side pontoons with optional split lower sections, realistic side mirrors, and aerodynamic detailing that captures the essence of modern grand prix racing machines.
• Direct-Drive 2WD Lightweight Chassis — The F104 Pro II utilises the proven direct-drive formula racing platform with a lightweight FRP double-deck frame, horizontal motor mounting, and longitudinal battery position that delivers sharp, responsive handling and minimal drivetrain losses for maximum efficiency on smooth racing surfaces.
• Advanced Front Suspension with Independent Coil Springs — The front end features a sophisticated link-type suspension using flat-section suspension arms with left-right independent control via kingpin and coil spring systems, allowing you to adjust camber by simply changing the upper mount attachment position for fine-tuned handling balance.
• Rigid Rear T-Bar Suspension with TRF Dampers — The rear suspension employs a 1.5mm thick FRP T-bar design (inherited from the legendary F104WGP) featuring U-shaped cutaway sections that provide supple compliance in the pitching direction whilst maintaining rigid control, working in concert with friction plates and precision TRF dampers for consistent rear-end feedback.
• Aluminium Ball Differential with Full Bearing Support — A lightweight yet durable aluminium ball differential allows tyre changes without disassembling the entire drivetrain, with full bearing support throughout for smooth, efficient power delivery and reduced friction.
• Realistic Semi-Pneumatic Synthetic Rubber Tyres — The kit includes quality synthetic rubber tyres with texture and feel that mimics real racing rubber, sized appropriately for the 1/10 scale formula car (30/64mm front, 35/64mm rear), with optional inner sponge inserts provided for alternative setup configurations.
• Precision Servo-Driven Steering — Equal-length two-section tie-rod steering geometry provides direct, linear steering response with minimal compliance, essential for the precise input requirements of formula racing where every millimetre of steering input affects lap times.
• Scalable Aerodynamics with Optional Parts — The body includes separate polycarbonate parts representing vanes, vertical wings, induction pods, complex 3D-curved front wing elements, and low-mounted rear wing sections; additional lower side pontoon options allow further customisation for different setups or equipment configurations.
• Authentic Markings and Decals — Comprehensive marking stickers are included to decorate the body in authentic racing livery, allowing you to create a unique race-ready appearance that reflects your personal style or favourite formula racing team colours.

Technical Performance

The Tamiya F104 Pro II is engineered with precision and lightweight efficiency at its core, representing decades of on-road RC racing expertise. The chassis utilises FRP double-deck construction with a newly refined lower deck design that optimises weight distribution and component packaging whilst maintaining the exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratio that defines competitive formula cars. The 4.16:1 gear ratio (25-tooth pinion driving a 104-tooth spur gear) is specifically selected for formula racing applications, providing the right balance between acceleration response and top-end performance depending on your chosen motor power level. The direct-drive 2WD drivetrain eliminates the complexity and friction losses associated with multi-stage transmissions, making the F104 Pro II incredibly efficient and responsive to throttle inputs. Suspension geometry has been meticulously developed for on-road racing, with the front independent suspension providing precise camber adjustment capabilities (by repositioning upper mount attachment points) to dial in the exact handling characteristics needed for different track surfaces and driving styles. The rear T-bar suspension, with its U-shaped flex cutaway design, maintains the legendary compliance of the F104WGP whilst providing the control needed for modern high-grip racing surfaces. All bearing surfaces throughout the chassis utilise full ball bearing support, reducing friction and ensuring smooth operation even under race-pace conditions. The polycarbonate body, whilst requiring careful handling and assembly, provides authentic styling with genuine scale detail including the complex 3D-curved front wing and low-mounted rear wing elements that distinguish this as a serious competition-grade formula racing platform.

What's in the Box

• Complete F104 Pro II 2WD formula car chassis with FRP double-deck frame and newly designed lower deck
• Original polycarbonate body (unpainted) based on 2017 Formula 1 styling and dimensions
• All chassis components: suspension arms, kingpins, coil springs, T-bar, friction plates, TRF dampers, and suspension geometry parts
• Aluminium ball differential (full bearing supported) with gear set
• Servo-driven steering linkage system with equal-length tie-rods
• FRP T-bar rear suspension component (1.5mm thick with U-shaped cutaway)
• Semi-pneumatic synthetic rubber tyres: front 30/64mm, rear 35/64mm
• Inner sponge inserts for tyre customisation options
• Optional body parts: vanes, vertical wings, induction pods, complex front wing sections, rear wing, rear diffuser, mirrors, and helmet details
• Optional lower side pontoon sections (split configuration) for alternative styling
• Comprehensive marking and livery decals
• Detailed assembly instruction manual
• Spare body assembly guide (PDF format)

What You Need to Complete

• 540-type brushed motor (sold separately) — a silver can motor will provide exciting performance, or choose higher-power options for increased speed
• Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) with appropriate current rating for your chosen motor (sold separately)
• Radio control system with at least one servo channel (sold separately)
• 7.2-volt rechargeable battery pack and compatible charger (sold separately)
• Polycarbonate paint suitable for clear polycarbonate bodyshells (sold separately)
• Hand tools for assembly: small screwdrivers, Allen keys, pliers, and a hobby knife for trimming
• Optional Hop-Up parts available separately for chassis tuning and customisation

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the Tamiya F104 Pro II suitable for beginners? — Whilst this is a serious competition-grade formula racing platform, it is not recommended for absolute beginners. The F104 Pro II is best suited to intermediate or advanced RC drivers who have experience with assembly kits and understand chassis setup. However, the direct-drive 2WD layout is actually more forgiving than many modern RC cars, rewarding smooth driving inputs and punishing mistakes clearly enough to help you improve rapidly. If you have somewhere clean and flat to drive it, this precision instrument will genuinely improve your driving skills as it responds to every input you give it.
• What motor should I choose for the F104 Pro II? — The kit is designed for 540-type brushed motors, which are readily available in the UK RC market. A standard silver can motor will make for genuinely exciting driving and provide a real challenge to master; many competitive drivers prefer silver cans for their responsiveness and reliability. Stronger motor options are available if you want higher top speed, but the modest power approach rewards good technique and is often more enjoyable for skill development.
• What battery does the F104 Pro II need? — The kit requires a 7.2-volt rechargeable battery pack (typically NiMH or LiPo format, 2S configuration for LiPo). Battery placement is longitudinal along the chassis centreline, which optimises weight distribution and front-to-rear balance. Ensure any battery you choose will fit the designated battery tray; speak to RC Model Shop staff for compatible battery recommendations.
• How long does it take to assemble? — Assembly time varies depending on your experience level, but expect 8-15 hours for a complete build. This includes chassis assembly, suspension setup, drivetrain installation, and body work. The detailed instruction manual guides you through each step. Many enthusiasts find the assembly process itself highly rewarding, as it builds comprehensive understanding of how the chassis works and prepares you for future tuning.
• What is the difference between the F104 Pro II and the original F104 Pro? — The F104 Pro II incorporates a newly designed lower deck for improved weight distribution and component packaging, upgraded suspension components for better handling consistency, refined steering geometry for more responsive control, and the modern 2017 F1-inspired polycarbonate body versus the older body design. All these refinements together make the Pro II sharper, more responsive, and more visually striking than the original Pro platform.
• Can I run the F104 Pro II indoors on a carpet? — The F104 Pro II is optimised for smooth hard surfaces such as racing tracks, sealed floors, or purpose-built on-road circuits. Carpet is not suitable; the tyres and suspension are specifically designed for minimal-resistance surfaces, and carpet driving would be frustrating. You'll get the best experience and performance from a clean, smooth, dedicated on-road racing surface.
• What spare parts and hop-up options are available? — Tamiya offers an extensive range of F104 Pro II compatible hop-up and spare parts through the official Tamiya parts search system. These include alternative suspension geometry parts, different damper settings, alternative gear ratios, spare body shells, tyre compounds, and numerous tuning components. RC Model Shop can assist with sourcing specific parts for your build or performance goals.

Why Buy from RC Model Shop?

RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the Tamiya F104 Pro II 1/10 Scale 2WD Formula One R/C Car Kit – TAM58652 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.