The iconic final form of the Optima Series Revived in all its glory!
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!
Key Features:
- 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!
What's In The Box?
- Chassis Kit
- Tyres
- Wheel
- Clear body&underbody
- Decals
- Hexagon wrench
- Cross wrench
- Shock wrench
- Grease
- #200Shock oil
- Ball Differential Grease
Required for Operation (Not Included)
- 2 channel R/C system
- Servo - Note: Max servo size:L41xW21xH38mm *recommended: No.37061 Low Profile Servo LE MANS240S KS4241-08M
- 540 Motor *recommended:LE MANS 240 GOLD Brushless Motor 13.5T No.37034
- ESC - ESC size:L40xW42xH29.5mm * recommended:No.37051B LE MANS 240S ESC
- Battery for chassis - MaxBattery size: L140xW50xH25mm
- Batteries for transmitter
- Charger for battery
- Paint for body

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.
Technical Specifications:
Length 397mm
Width 250mm
Height 135mm
Wheelbase 273mm
Tread(F/R) 212mm / 208mm
Weight approx 1620g (with 7.2V4000 LiPo)
Tires(F/R) φ82×30mm / φ82×36mm
Motor 540 class size (sold separately)
Gear ratio 8.28:1
Shipping
$13.50 Flat Rate - Nationwide!
Saturday Delivery
Unfortunately Saturday delivery is no longer available at RC Hobbies.
Delivery
Once RC Hobbies has confirmed acceptance of the buyer's order, we will endeavor to dispatch the buyer's order within
1-3 Business days unless a different time frame is specified in relation to a particular product. If we are unable to dispatch
the buyer's order within the time frame specified by RC Hobbies we will endeavor to contact the buyer and advise
the buyer of the expected dispatch date.
In stock items are generally dispatched on the same day you place your order, unless a different time frame is specified
in relation to a particular product and provided the order was placed before our daily cut off time which is usually
around 1PM.
We use NZ Post, Aramex, and Post Haste for New Zealand orders. Deliveries are usually 2 working days, but please allow an extra
day for big parcels to reach the South Island and for rural deliveries.
We use NZ Post for orders that can fit into overnight courier bags and Post Haste for larger parcels.
Tracking emails will be sent out once parcels have been collected.
The buyer may specify delivery instructions for an order (for example, the buyer may authorise the delivery agent to
leave the products in a specified location if the buyer will not be at the delivery address). RC Hobbies will
not be responsible for any order that is delivered in accordance with the buyer’s delivery instructions.
Delivery to PO Boxes
RC Hobbies can send goods to PO Boxes, except for large freight boxes.
International Delivery.
We're based in New Zealand but we deliver all round the world. Please use our shipping estimator at checkoutfor a shipping quote or contact us and will send you
a quote.
sales@rchobbies.co.nz
Returns Policy
The item I received is not the item I ordered
Provided the item is unopened and in mint condition we’ll replace the item. To receive your replacement you must return the
original item to. You will be provided with a no-cost return addressed courier satchel (or similar)
and we will process your replacement within 1–3 days of receiving your item.
The item I ordered arrived faulty.
Please arrange with RC Hobbies to return the item for testing. If we confirm that the item was damaged before leaving
RC Hobbies, or was faulty out of the box, your item will be repaired or if it cannot be repaired then it will be replaced
by RC Hobbies Ltd free of charge. If the goods are faulty we will meet our obligations under the Consumers Guarantees
Act to provide a remedy.
The item I ordered did not arrive
If your item did not arrive the first thing to do is request a “track and trace” on your item from the Courier Post or Fastway
tracking emails we send out.
Alternatively you can call Courier Post on
0800 268 743 or Post Haste on
09 444 2950
If the “track and trace” on your order indicates that it has been delivered, but you’re unable to find it or it hasn’t been
delivered within the timeframe we will start an investigation with Courier Post & Post Haste on your behalf.
Regrettably, neither RC Hobbies nor Courier Post & Fastway are able to refund or replace items that have been lost, damaged
or stolen after being delivered to your property. If you are concerned about leaving your items unattended we recommend
using “Signature Required” option which is our default option unless advise by the Buyer to use the “No Signature Required”
option.
I've changed my mind and no longer want the item I ordered
Change of mind returns can be processed as long as it has been agreed by RC Hobbies and the item has been returned
within 7 days of dispatch and is unopened and in mint condition. The shipping for the return will also be at the cost
of the buyer. Once we have the item in hand we will assess the item and if everything checks out OK you will receive
a Store Credit or refund less the restock fee and freight charges.
Restock fee
All goods ordered in error by the Customer or goods the Customer wishes to return are subject to a restock fee. The fee is
15% of the goods sales value. This applies if you change your mind, ordered it in error, unwanted Gift or just did not
like it or did not suit you, so please choose carefully and read the descriptions in the listings as some products also
require additional items to complete.
Description
The iconic final form of the Optima Series Revived in all its glory!
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!
Key Features:
- 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!
What's In The Box?
- Chassis Kit
- Tyres
- Wheel
- Clear body&underbody
- Decals
- Hexagon wrench
- Cross wrench
- Shock wrench
- Grease
- #200Shock oil
- Ball Differential Grease
Required for Operation (Not Included)
- 2 channel R/C system
- Servo - Note: Max servo size:L41xW21xH38mm *recommended: No.37061 Low Profile Servo LE MANS240S KS4241-08M
- 540 Motor *recommended:LE MANS 240 GOLD Brushless Motor 13.5T No.37034
- ESC - ESC size:L40xW42xH29.5mm * recommended:No.37051B LE MANS 240S ESC
- Battery for chassis - MaxBattery size: L140xW50xH25mm
- Batteries for transmitter
- Charger for battery
- Paint for body

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.
Technical Specifications:
Length 397mm
Width 250mm
Height 135mm
Wheelbase 273mm
Tread(F/R) 212mm / 208mm
Weight approx 1620g (with 7.2V4000 LiPo)
Tires(F/R) φ82×30mm / φ82×36mm
Motor 540 class size (sold separately)
Gear ratio 8.28:1
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Shipping & Returns
Shipping
$13.50 Flat Rate -Nationwide!
Delivery
Once E&E TRADERS LTD has confirmed acceptance of the buyer's order, we will endeavor to dispatch the buyer's order within
24 Hours unless a different time frame is specified in relation to a particular product. If we are unable to dispatch
the buyer's order within the time frame specified by E&E TRADERS LTD we will endeavor to contact the buyer and advise
the buyer of the expected dispatch date.
In stock items are generally dispatched on the following business day, unless a different time frame is specified
in relation to a particular product and provided the order was placed before our daily cut off time which is usually
around 1PM - 2PM.
We use Courier Post and Fastway for New Zealand orders. Deliveries are usually overnight, but please allow an extra
day for big parcels to reach the South Island and for rural deliveries.
We use Courier Post for orders that can fit into overnight courier bags and Fastway for larger parcels.
Tracking emails will be sent out once parcels have been collected.
The buyer may specify delivery instructions for an order (for example, the buyer may authorise the delivery agent to
leave the products in a specified location if the buyer will not be at the delivery address). RC Hobbies 12 Ltd will
not be responsible for any order that is delivered in accordance with the buyer’s delivery instructions.
Delivery to PO Boxes
E & E TRADERS LTD can send goods to PO Boxes
International Delivery.
We're based in New Zealand but we deliver all round the world. Please contact us for a shipping quote or we will send you
a quote after your order has been placed.
sales@rchobbies.co.nz
Returns Policy
The item I received is not the item I ordered
Provided the item is unopened and in mint condition we’ll replace the item. To receive your replacement you must return the
original item to E & E TRADERS LTD. You will be provided with a no-cost return addressed courier satchel (or similar) and
we will process your replacement within 1–3 days of receiving your item.
The item I ordered arrived faulty.
Please arrange with E & E TRADERS LTD to return the item for testing. If we confirm that the item was damaged before leaving
RC Hobbies, or was faulty out of the box, your item will be repaired or if it cannot be repaired then it will be replaced
by E & E TRADERS LTD free of charge. If the goods are faulty we will meet our obligations under the Consumers Guarantees
Act to provide a remedy.
The item I ordered did not arrive
If your item did not arrive the first thing to do is request a “track and trace” on your item from the Courier Post or Fastway tracking emails we send out.
Alternatively you can call Courier Post on 0800 268 743 or Fastway on 09 634 3704
If the “track and trace” on your order indicates that it has been delivered, but you’re unable to find it or it hasn’t been
delivered within the timeframe we will start an investigation with Courier Post & PostHaste on your behalf.
Regrettably, neither RC Hobbies nor Courier Post & PostHaste are able to refund or replace items that have been lost, damaged or stolen
after being delivered to your property. If you are concerned about leaving your items unattended we recommend using “Signature
Required” option which is our default option unless advise by the Buyer to use the “No Signature Required” option.
I've changed my mind and no longer want the item I ordered
Change of mind returns can be processed as long as it has been agreed by E & E TRADERS LTD and the item has been returned
within 7 days of dispatch and is unopened and in mint condition. The shipping for the return will also be at the cost of
the buyer. Once we have the item in hand we will assess the item and if everything checks out OK you will receive a Store
Credit or refund less the restock fee and freight charges.
Restock fee
All goods ordered in error by the Customer or goods the Customer wishes to return are subject to a restock fee. The fee is
10% of the goods sales value. This applies if you change your mind, ordered it in error, unwanted Gift or just did not like
it or did not suit you, so please choose carefully and read the descriptions in the listings as some products also require
additional items to complete.