Tamiya has announced the re-issue of its legendary Sand Scorcher radio controlled car by building a full-sized version. First released in 1980, the Sand Scorcher is one of Tamiya's most famous models. Featuring fully independent suspension and waterproofed electrics the Sand Scorcher was revolutionary in its day. The news of its re-issue has us giddy with excitement here.

Celebrating the model's re-release is this full-sized example built by German VW specialist Bug Box. The detailing is perfect, with the 1:1 scale version matching the box art perfectly - even down to the tyres that were specially sourced from the USA. Fully working, the exact replica only needs a driver...

At the car's unveiling at the Nurnberg Toy Fair, the Tamiya designer who penned the R/C Sand Scorcher - Fumito Taki - was amazed at seeing his creation. He said: "It's incredible, I never thought that thirty years after designing this buggy that it would be still so popular or that someone would want to make a full size version."

The re-released Sand Scorcher model will be on sale in the UK from 25 Feb. If you want one you'll need to be quick as demand is likely to outstrip supply. Our order is already in.

Kyle Fortune - 11 Feb 2010