All In The Details – RocHobby’s 1/12 Scale Kubelwagen

From building, to driving, to simply admiring, there are many aspects of the RC hobby to enjoy. In this review we are focusing on the enjoyment of the finished model itself as we take a closer look at RocHobby’s detailed 1/12-scale Type 82 Kubelwagen. This small-scale RTR is a drivable scale model packed with tons of details that will spark the interest and imagination of even the most discerning hobbyists. Let’s jump in and take a closer look.

DESIGN & QUALITY

RocHobby’s 1/12-scale Kubelwagen is an immaculate example of applying a hyper-detailed approach to crafting an RC model. Simply put, it’s a realistic 1/12-scale plastic model that you just happen to be able to drive. This RTR comes pre-built and pre-packed in a hard-shell foam case, complete with storage partitions for the radio and accessories along with working latches on the side of the case, so you can rest assured the model is kept safe until you’re ready to drive or display it.

The Type 82 Kubelwagen is built as a true-to-scale replica yet still retains RC functionality. A fully contained gearbox sits underneath the rear of the car and is encased in a replica of the Type 82’s original air-cooled engine. RocHobby even goes so far as to include a working fan belt and pulley that rotate as the car accelerates, which really completes the look of the tiny replica engine.

The car is propelled by a 130-type electric motor controlled by a proprietary 2-in-1 ESC and receiver. The ESC is located under the hood of the Kubelwagen, which also contains a convenient battery storage compartment. Working gear differentials are installed at the front and rear of the Type 82 for optimal power transfer. Steel CVAs and a steel center driveshaft are installed for durability and give the Kubelwagen reliable 4WD. Though the real Type 82 never actually came with 4WD (that was the Type 86), this recreation of an all-wheel-drive design works really well and is a welcomed addition to the platform.

As for suspension, the Kubelwagen features a correct-to-scale representation of the Type 1 VW design with independent front swing arms. The rear also features similar accuracy, with working portal axles and a torsion beam style setup. Integrated springs at the rear and enclosed friction-type shocks at the front round out the Type 82’s suspension package.

Externally, the model is built from high-quality ABS plastic that has been finished to perfection with paint and decals. All around the model you’ll find small details that culminate in a spectacle of scale reproduction. So many little details, like the working door handles, the cushioned cloth seats, and the faux-wood floorboards all stand out as intricate gems worked into this small-scale piece of art. Even the small things you can’t see are recreated with high detail, like the rear transaxle case hidden above the underside chassis panels.

Just like the real vehicle, the RocHobby Kubelwagen comes equipped with fully functional front suicide doors, along with standard-style rears. The rear seatback folds down to reveal the hidden storage compartment and works in tandem with an articulating top panel. Both the front hood and the rear hatch open up, with the front revealing the car’s electronics and the rear lid leading to the replica engine bay. The windshield folds down and includes locking tabs that hold it in place, while the side mirrors pivot and rotate as needed.

The car features a full set of foam-cushioned tires, including a hood-mounted spare, all with a true-to-scale 5-lug bolt pattern. Metal bumpers and fixtures are fitted to the front and rear, and the whole car is finished off with a working set of front and rear LED lights. I especially like that the lights can be toggled with the transmitter, including several brightness settings and rear flashing hazards. These little details are exactly what provide the extra spectacle not normally found in most RC vehicles. These little facets are what set the RocHobby Kubelwagen apart from the rest.

THE DRIVE

Being that this vehicle is more of a scale representation than a performance machine, the Kubelwagen is certainly not fast by any means. It is, however, still very enjoyable to drive. Once the trim and steering rate have been adjusted, the little vehicle becomes quite a joy to drive around, easily conquering living room carpets just as well as paved roads and dirt paths. Though we aren’t getting our kicks from sheer speed, simply seeing such a highly detailed scale model move under its own power is entertainment enough.

“Once the trim and steering rate have been adjusted, the little vehicle becomes quite a joy to drive around.”

Appreciating the look of the vehicle while it calmly motors on is all part of what makes driving this car as enjoyable as it is. The 130-type motor provides plenty of power for the relatively small-sized vehicle, and stout underpinnings provide plenty of durability.
The overall kit is very easy to set up and adjust, and only requires a brief charge of the included 380mAh battery to get going. The transmitter is simple yet effective, and the function buttons are easy and intuitive to use. To round out the driving experience, the articulating suspension and responsive steering give the car a bit of finesse, and I especially like the moving steering wheel and functioning rear blinkers as the car turns.

RocHobby 1/12 Scale Kubelwagen VEHICLE SPECS

Height: 5.1 in. (129mm)
Length: 12.5 in. (317mm)
Width: 5.3 in. (135mm)
Wheelbase: 8 in. (202mm)

Scale: 1/12
Price: $249.99
Weight: 22.4 oz. (w/o battery)
Chassis: Plastic
Shocks: Friction-type
Front Suspension: Swing-arm
Rear Suspension: Torsion beam
Differential: Gear-type, front and rear
Driveshafts: Steel CVA
Bearings: Steel ball
Body: ABS, pre-painted
Wheels: ABS
Tires: Rubber w/foam inserts
ESC & Rx: 2-in-1 design
Motor: 130-type
Radio: RocHobby 2.4GHz
Battery: FMS 380mAh 7.4V LiPo
Charger: FMS USB-type

FINAL WORD

This is, by all means, a collector vehicle. One especially suited for those of us who appreciate models that look good just as much as we do the ones that strive for performance. Whether you are looking for a fun little car to putter around, or simply a great-looking kit to put on the display shelf, RocHobby’s 1/12-scale Type 82 Kubelwagen is sure to satisfy. I’m certainly a fan, and I am confident you will be too. As always, thanks for reading, I’ll catch you in the next one.

To see more custom creations by Robert Pezza, aka Scale Rat, followed him on Facebook and Instagram with the handle @ScaleRat20. You can also follow Matt Howell on Facebook at facebook.com/mac.towell.5.

Source: FMS fmsmodel.com

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Text and Images by Lauren Short