LONDON, 1 NOVEMBER 2024 — Collecting Cars has unveiled a unique addition to this year’s holiday gift lineup: a limited-edition Tamiya GR Yaris radio-controlled (R/C) model, created in collaboration with the renowned Japanese R/C brand, Tamiya. With only 25 models available worldwide, this highly collectible miniature captures the spirit of both the Toyota GR Yaris and Tamiya’s legendary Sand Scorcher, a classic model first released in 1979. Reflecting Collecting Cars’ flair for celebrating automotive culture, the limited release is set to captivate R/C enthusiasts and automotive collectors alike.
A tribute to a legend, the Tamiya GR Yaris R/C model brings the storied charm of Tamiya’s R/C lineup into the present. Built on Tamiya’s M-05 chassis, the model combines high-performance features with vintage appeal, offering a semi-monocoque resin frame and double wishbone suspension for optimal handling. Front and rear friction dampers contribute to a realistic and engaging driving experience, giving the model an impressive capability for both display and play. Collectors will also appreciate the bespoke ‘Sand Scorcher’ sticker pack that accompanies each model, enhancing its visual connection to the classic R/C design.
Released just in time for the festive season, the Collecting Cars x Tamiya GR Yaris R/C model is priced at £325 plus shipping and can be ordered at shop.collectingcars.com. The limited-edition piece comes on a first-come, first-served basis, making it a prime choice for collectors looking for a memorable holiday gift or a distinctive addition to their collections. Worldwide delivery ensures that enthusiasts from every corner of the globe have the chance to bring home this miniature icon.
The partnership was commemorated with a grand unveiling at Collecting Cars’ Worldwide Coffee Run event, where the company showcased a full-size Toyota GR Yaris inspired by Tamiya’s classic Sand Scorcher. This striking homage, part of Collecting Cars’ fleet, echoes the unique design and vibrant livery of the original Sand Scorcher, bridging the worlds of R/C and real-life automotive culture. To mark the collaboration, Collecting Cars released an exclusive film featuring British touring car racer Jake Hill, who showcases the performance and personality of both the model and its full-size counterpart.
A Perfect Gift for Enthusiasts of All Ages
With this release, Collecting Cars has crafted an experience that appeals to both seasoned collectors and young R/C enthusiasts. Edward Lovett, Founder and CEO of Collecting Cars, remarked, “The Toyota GR Yaris has become a standout within the Collecting Cars community, and this Tamiya model captures the excitement of both the real car and the beloved R/C classic. This collaboration is a reflection of everything we love about the GR Yaris, both in full size and in miniature. It’s a beautifully crafted homage to an icon, and the perfect gift for the petrolhead in your life – better than socks any day! A rally car really is for life, not just for Christmas.”
Inspired by Tamiya’s original Sand Scorcher, which rose to fame in the late 1970s with its characterful waterproof design and metal components, the GR Yaris R/C model reintroduces the spirit of this vintage classic to a new generation. The Sand Scorcher was re-released in 2010 to mark its 30th anniversary, allowing a new wave of R/C aficionados to experience its enduring charm. Now, the GR Yaris model brings that legacy to life in a fresh and modern form, celebrating Tamiya’s heritage and the GR Yaris’ impact within the Collecting Cars community.
Collecting Cars: A Leader in the Global Auction Space
Collecting Cars has quickly risen to prominence as a leader in online automotive auctions, known for record-breaking sales and its innovative approach to the collector community. With an active, dedicated user base, the platform continues to expand through unique offerings and partnerships that redefine the auction experience. As part of The Collecting Group, which includes Watch Collecting, Collecting Cars has established itself as a premier destination for high-value collectibles.
For those who miss out on the limited-edition Tamiya GR Yaris model, Collecting Cars offers a wide range of automotive-themed merchandise year-round at shop.collectingcars.com. From apparel to accessories, the shop has become a staple for enthusiasts looking to incorporate their passion for automotive culture into their everyday lives.
The Collecting Cars x Tamiya GR Yaris R/C model is a true collector’s item, blending nostalgia with contemporary design and offering fans a chance to own a piece of automotive history in miniature form. Whether under the Christmas tree or proudly displayed in a collection, this model is more than just a toy—it’s a celebration of automotive heritage and the enduring appeal of the R/C tradition.
