At the 1987 Electric Off-Road Car World Championship in the UK, the prototype Optima Mid dominated the 4WD A-Main final race securing 5 out of 10 starting positions. Following its success, the Optima Mid was commercialized to achieve worldwide racing acclaim. In 1988, the Turbo Optima Mid Special was released in limited quantities as the final evolution of the Optima Mid and sold out instantly due to overwhelming demand. Now, this legendary machine returns in 2025 as Volume 18 of Kyosho's Vintage Series. The original Turbo Optima Mid Special featured an 18mm longer wheelbase than the Optima Mid, enhancing high-speed stability and cornering performance. Its main chassis was designed for improved battery weight distribution and constructed from FRP sandwiched between carbon plates, striking an optimal balance of flexibility and rigidity. The belt and belt cover were also specifically designed for the Turbo Optima Mid Special, and the body was newly created to match the chassis. This faithful reproduction retains all these defining features while incorporating updates to support modern power systems and R/C electronics. Previously optional parts are now included as standard, along with several newly developed components. Unlike the original, this is not a limited edition but a permanent addition to Kyosho’s catalog. The return of the Turbo Optima Mid Special to modern circuits is a dream come true for all fans, whether they were lucky enough to own the original, or missed out due to its limited production. Now anyone can drive the ultimate evolution of the Optima!
●The 18th model in the Kyosho Vintage Series faithfully recreates the legendary Turbo Optima Mid Special. The original limited edition released in 1988 sold out almost immediately.
●Eight new parts were specifically designed for the Turbo Optima Mid Special.
●While maintaining the original design, updates have been made to support modern R/C electronics and power sources.
●High-efficiency belt-drive 4WD system delivers stability and smooth control on both R/C circuits and dirt tracks.
●48-pitch pinion and spur gears are used, with the option to install 78T/80T spur gears.
●Equipped with reinforced slipper clutch designed for powerful motors and batteries. Can be adjusted with the dual slipper seat from the Ultima RB.
●Included battery holder is compatible with various battery shapes. By trimming part of the main chassis, side-by-side Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) or Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) batteries can be mounted.
●The reinforced nylon rear wing provides a balance of strength and flexibility, and is shared with the previously released Optima Mid. It can also be swapped with a Scorpion-style wing for further tuning.
●The rear hub carrier allows adjustment of toe angles to 0°, 1°, or 2° by changing the bushings.
●Aluminum hex wheel hubs are securely fixed with screw pins.
●Drivetrain features full ball bearings, ensuring high rotational efficiency.
●Blister-style packaging, similar to the original release, evokes nostalgia from that era.
●With a wide range of optional parts, this model offers extensive tuning options. This model is not just a simple remake – it's ready to be enjoyed as a modern-day racer!
Built on the same fundamental design as the 1988 Turbo Optima Mid Special, its longer wheelbase compared to the standard Optima Mid greatly enhances driving stability.
The main chassis, made from a hybrid material with FRP layered between carbon, provides balanced flexibility under load for smooth handling. It also features slots inspired by the original design, allowing for a split battery configuration.
The redesigned body, tailored to the extended wheelbase, has been updated to fit modern battery sizes while preserving its original appearance. It also includes a dustproof underbody for enhanced aerodynamics. A decal sheet is provided to replicate the original packaging color scheme.
For the relaunch of the Turbo Optima Mid Special, newly designed narrow 50mm front tires and wheels have been introduced. The yellow resin-molded wheels match the existing rear wheels, while the block-pattern tires provide superior grip.
The oil shocks feature a gold anodized finish, inspired by the pressure shocks used on Kyosho's high-end models from the 1980s. Medium-hard springs in the front and rear ensure smooth, responsive handling.
The aluminum parts are finished in Kyosho Works gunmetal, a color not available on the 1988 production model. The shock (damper) stays feature black FRP plates.
Universal swing shafts on the front axle are standard to reduce drivetrain loss. This minimizes deceleration during cornering and prevents parts from detaching during operation.
A new belt cover designed to fit the extended wheelbase securely protects the drive belt from dirt and stones. The precise fit makes it easy to attach the upper deck.
Turnbuckle-type upper suspension arms and steering rods enable quick, stepless length adjustments for rapid setup changes.
The rear hub carrier (upright) allows toe angle adjustments at 0°, 1°, or 2° by swapping bushings, providing easy setup changes and wide adaptability to different track conditions.