They are usually not accurate scale models, since the proportions of the tiny bodies must often be stretched to accommodate a standard motor and mechanism. As racing in this size evolved, the cars were enlarged to take more powerful motors, and today they are often 1:64 or larger in scale but they still run on track of approximately the same width, and are generically referred to as HO slot cars. Because they were marketed as model railroad accessories, the original small slot cars of the early 1960s very roughly approximated either American and European HO scale (1:87) or British OO scale (1:76). A Jaguar XK-E would be about 5.8 inches (15 cm) in 1:32 scale. This scale is the most popular in Europe, and is equivalent to the old #1 gauge (or "standard size") of toy trains. 1:32 scale cars are smaller and more suited to home-sized race courses, but they are also widely raced on commercial tracks, in hobby shops or in clubs.1:24 cars require a course so large as to be impractical for many home enthusiasts, so most serious 1:24 racing is done at commercial or club tracks. Thus, a model of a Jaguar XK-E (185 inches or 4.7 m overall length) would be 7.7 inches (20 cm) long in 1:24 scale. 1:24 scale cars are built so that one unit of length (such as an inch or millimetre) on the model equals 24 units on the actual car.Usual pronunciation is "one twenty-fourth", "one thirty-second", and so on, but sometimes "one to twenty-four", "one to thirty-two". These are also commonly written as 1/24, 1/32, 1/87 and 1/64. There are three common slotcar scales (sizes): 1:24 scale, 1:32 scale, and so-called HO size ( 1:87 to 1:64 scale). The 1960s-era HO model has been widened to accept the mechanism. Today, in all scales, traction magnets are sometimes used to provide downforce to help hold the car to the track at higher speeds, though some enthusiasts believe magnet-free racing provides greater challenge and enjoyment and allows the back of the car to slide or "drift" outward for visual realism.Ĭommon slot car scales Models of the Ford GT, in 1:24, 1:32 and nominal HO scales. The car's electrical contacts, called "pickup shoes", are generally fixed directly to the chassis, and a round guide pin is often used instead of a swiveling flag. HO slot cars work on a similar principle, but the current is carried by thin metal rails that project barely above the track surface and are set farther out from the slot. Likewise, the car's frame or chassis has been omitted for clarity. This is a basic circuit, and optional features such as braking elements or electronic control devices are not shown. The voltage is varied by a resistor in the hand controller. Power for the car's motor is carried by metal strips next to the slot, and is picked up by contacts alongside the guide flag (a swiveling blade) under the front of the slot car. The diagram on the right shows the wiring of a typical 1:24 or 1:32 slot car setup. How it works Typical electrical circuit of a 1:24 or 1:32 slot car track. Model motorcycles, trucks and other vehicles that use the guide-slot system are also generally included under the loose classification of "slot car." Hobbyists whose main goal is competition often prefer a track unobstructed by scenery. Some enthusiasts, much as in model railroading, build elaborate tracks, sculpted to have the appearance of a real-life racecourse, including miniature buildings, trees and people. The challenge in racing slot cars comes in taking curves and other obstacles as fast as possible without causing the car to lose its grip and spin sideways, or to 'deslot', leaving the track altogether. Traditionally, each car runs on a separate lane with its own guide-slot (though recently developed digital technology can allow cars to share and change lanes). Most enthusiasts use commercially available slot cars (often modified for better performance), others motorize static models, and some "scratch-build", creating their own mechanisms and bodies from basic parts and materials.ĭrivers generally use a hand-held controller to regulate a low-voltage electric motor hidden within the car. Slot cars are usually models of actual automobiles, though some have bodies purpose-designed for miniature racing. Though some slot cars are used to model highway traffic on scenic layouts, the great majority are used in the competitive hobby of slot car racing or slot racing.ĭescription A typical, 1:32 scale, Audi R8R slot car by Carrera A pin or blade extends from the bottom of the car into the slot. Ninco, 1:32 scale.Ī slot car or slotcar is a powered miniature automobile or other vehicle that is guided by a groove or slot in the track on which it runs. Slot-guided powered model car Modern commercially made slot cars and track.
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