When I first saw the Jun Watanabe edition Hornet (58527), I wasn’t sure if it was a serious RC car or a fashion statement — and honestly, that’s what makes it so cool. It takes the classic Tamiya Hornet, one of the most iconic beginner buggies ever, and gives it a wild, artsy makeover thanks to Japanese designer Jun Watanabe. If the regular Hornet is a timeless classic, this one feels like its eccentric cousin who shows up at the track wearing neon sneakers.
Underneath, it’s still the same Hornet chassis that’s been around since the 1980s. That means a super simple build, rear-wheel drive, a solid rear axle with friction dampers, and a lightweight plastic tub chassis. It’s not fancy, it’s not modern, but it’s tough, fast enough with the included motor, and easy to fix when you eventually flip it (and you will). For beginners, it’s one of those cars that teaches you the basics of throttle control and handling without overwhelming you with complexity.
But what sets this version apart is the styling. The Jun Watanabe Hornet has this bold polka-dot body scheme, bright graphics, and generally loud vibes that make it stand out in any RC crowd. It’s almost more of a collector’s item than a pure runner — people who are into Tamiya history or Japanese design love this kit because it bridges RC with fashion culture. That said, it’s still fully drivable and just as fun to bash around as a regular Hornet.
Driving it is exactly like driving the classic Hornet — fast in a straight line, a little bouncy over bumps thanks to the old-school suspension, and tail-happy on loose dirt. It’s not the most stable or precise buggy, but that’s part of its charm. You feel every bump and slide, and it keeps you on your toes. As a beginner, that’s actually fun, because it’s challenging but not frustrating — and it survives a lot of abuse.
To me, the Jun Watanabe Hornet is like having a piece of RC art you can also drive. If you’re looking for a first buggy that’s quirky, unique, and conversation-starting, this one fits the bill. You get all the nostalgic fun of the Hornet with a splash of creativity that makes it feel special. It may not be the best buggy to learn racing lines on, but it might be the one that makes you fall in love with the hobby.