TIME-MACHINE TEST DRIVE

The Javelin experience begins at the bench, and this buggy is a particularly fun build because it’s so different from modern designs. Also fun: there’s practically no painting required, since the tube-style body is molded in color. The driver figure only needs a shot of whatever color you want for his suit; all the other details, including the “carbon fiber” areas surrounding him, are decals, and no masking is required. We went for chain drive to keep the full vintage flavor, and the drivetrain spins smoothly and quietly with a different, but not loud, type of whir compared to belt drive. Photo-shoot driving included the fine sand of a volleyball court, which usually spells trouble for 4WD drivetrains, but the Jav’s sealed system did a good job of keeping the grit out of the gears. In dirt, where the buggy belongs, the Javelin looked exceptionally good zipping around and brought back powerful first-wave RC memories. The Lemans 19.5T motor simulates old-school stock power well and is perfect for vintage cruising. The Jav’s aft motor position gives it a different feel than the mid-motor standard that’s been set since the Optima Mid, with surprisingly sharp turn-in and nice rotation as the motor’s mass swings around like a rear-motor 2WD buggy. Modern buggies work better, obviously, but the Javelin’s handling is still solid and delivers plenty of flashback fun. It’s a good jumper too, and feels much like a 2WD buggy but with more attitude control thanks to 4WD. The Javelin doesn’t love rough bash-around terrain with its small (by today’s standards) wheels and tires, but most buyers aren’t looking for that kind of action—this beauty is all about smooth dirt and vintage style.