Were Gold Wheels Reserved For Tamiya's Top Cars?

[Saito]

Is it possible that when Tamiya used gold plated wheels, that they intended them to denote a special or top of the line vehicle? The Super Shot was their top 4wd, the Fox their best 2wd and the Monster Beetle their best monster truck at the time. My theory is that the gold plated wheel trend may have ended due to either their cost or fragility. Any thoughts?

[Hibernaculum]

Is it possible that when Tamiya used gold plated wheels, that they intended them to denote a special or top of the line vehicle? The Super Shot was their top 4wd, the Fox their best 2wd and the Monster Beetle their best monster truck at the time. My theory is that the gold plated wheel trend may have ended due to either their cost or fragility. Any thoughts?

I think you're basically right. Those three were top cars among Tamiya's lineup, so they put gold wheels on them to make them even more special.

Great idea, but no surprise really as it came from an era (pre-1988) when I think Tamiya's R/C department was at the peak of it's creative powers.

As for why the idea ended, fragility seems a likely reason. As with many of the things people love about the vintage cars, the idea may not have been all that logical or practical, but it's now remembered with great nostalgia.

cheers,

H.

[kontemax]

You forgot the Thunder Shot gold wheels.

Cheers

Max

[markbt73]

I remember once looking for new wheels for my Blackfoot in the hobby shop, and finding a set of Monster Beetle wheels. My dad took one look at them and said, "well THOSE will stay shiny for about three seconds..."