Manta Ray 1990 & 2005
Model: (Click to see more)
58087: Manta Ray
Status: NIB
Date: 16-Dec-2021
Comments: 9
Share this model:
Status: NIB
Date: 16-Dec-2021
Comments: 9
Share this model:
I have long loved this kit for its sleek fantasy character design. In more recent years I learned it was the first to have the DF-01 chassis shaft driven 4WD design. These are photos of my 1990 and 2005 re-re kits NIB.
These are my comparison photos of the two kits. One big difference between them is the 2005 version does not come with a speed controller or resistor. The interior packaging has also changed a little.
I recently found the hop up shaft and motor mount parts.
The 1990 kit is for sale to a collector of RC history.
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Comments
GEMINIJETS
What a beautiful kits!! I wish I could get the 2005 version sometime...
Cameron PS
I agree! The 2005 version feels easier to open up and build. The 1990 kit has become a time capsule. Would you build, run, or shelf either?
GEMINIJETS
'Cameron PS' Oh, if have the kit, I would definitely build it and run. I am not a NIB nor shelf queen kinda guy. I'm sorry I miised it out in 2005.
woomagic
I bought a Manta Ray back in the day. I didn't actually like the look of it but I wanted four wheel drive and it was the only one in my budget. You're right about the 1990 being a time capsule. If it was never rereleased and you wanted to build one from new, I'd say just build it - but as you have a rere, it makes sense to keep the original NIB as there can't be that many out there unbuilt. It's a piece of history. If it was me, I leave the original one and build the newer one. That's my favourite thing about rere kits, I get to build a kit that I missed out on as a kid from new.
Cameron PS
I agree! Build the 2005 and keep the 1990 for nostalgia. Life is a little busy for me so by default both will live as they are for a little while longer.
Max Power
The Manta Ray has given me tons of great memories over the years, it's a fantastic Tamiya. I would keep the original unbuilt, but I think you would really enjoy building the rereleased one. Thanks for sharing them!
Cameron PS
Thank you Max Power! Did you use the hop up hard propeller shaft and aluminum motor mount?
Max Power
I've never had much of a problem with the stock propeller shaft, but upgrading the plastic motor mount is money well spent.
Cameron PS
Thank you for sharing your experience with this Max Power! I found a mount and shaft upgrade set for under $40 all in. The 2005 kit is destined to be built someday
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