No, the Kyosho Fazer MK2 is not a clone of the Tamiya TT-02. While both are 1/10 scale, four-wheel drive, shaft-driven on-road cars that serve a similar purpose in the hobby, they are fundamentally different platforms designed with different philosophies. The Fazer MK2 is Kyosho’s original design and a direct competitor to the TT-02, not a copy.
The confusion is understandable because they occupy the same entry-level to intermediate touring car space, but a closer look reveals they are quite different under the body shell. The table below breaks down their key differences.
| Feature | Tamiya TT-02 | Kyosho Fazer MK2 |
|---|---|---|
| Chassis Material | ABS Plastic | Glass-reinforced 66 Nylon |
| Typical Format | Kit (requires assembly and electronics) | Readyset (pre-assembled with electronics included) |
| Stock Motor | 540-size “Silver Can” style | 550-size G14L with internal cooling fan |
| Steering System | Unbraced, plastic-on-plastic design | Braced and covered bellcrank design |
| Stock Shocks | Friction dampers (on basic kits) | Oil-filled dampers |
| Hardware | Phillips head screws | Primarily hex head screws |
| Wheelbase | 257mm (standard touring car) | 260mm (standard), 274mm (long) |
Design Philosophy and Intended Use
Tamiya TT-02: The TT-02 is designed as a kit-building experience first and a high-performance car second. Its popularity stems from its low entry price, massive aftermarket support, and the fact you can build it from a box of parts. It is an adaptable, simple platform that you are expected to build and modify yourself. Many enthusiasts appreciate it as a blank canvas for customization, with the building process being half the enjoyment.
Kyosho Fazer MK2: The Fazer MK2 is designed as a Ready-to-Run performer. It comes out of the box with better components, including a powerful 550 motor and oil-filled shocks, with the goal of providing a superior driving experience immediately. The chassis uses higher-grade nylon plastic and a better-engineered steering system for less slop and better straight-line tracking. It is for the user who wants to spend more time driving and less time building and troubleshooting.
Original Designs, Different Strengths
The Fazer MK2 is Kyosho’s original answer to the same market need that Tamiya addresses with the TT-02. They are functional equivalents or rivals, but not a clone.
The TT-02’s strength lies in its simplicity, adaptability, and the enjoyment of building and hopping it up with countless aftermarket parts. It serves as a fantastic platform for learning the mechanics of RC cars and for customizing to your heart’s content.
The Fazer MK2’s strength is its superior out-of-the-box driving quality, better materials, and being a complete, ready-to-go package. It requires minimal preparation before you’re on the road, making it ideal for those who prioritize driving over building.
So, if you love building and tuning, the TT-02 is a classic blank canvas. If you just want a car that drives great from the first time you turn it on, the Fazer MK2 is the more polished choice.