Kyosho Turbo Optima Mid Special Returns – Vintage Legend Reborn in 2025

Curious why a buggy born in 1988 still feels right at home on today’s tracks? Let’s dig into what made the Turbo Optima Mid Special iconic, and how the 2025 re-release keeps that magic while adding the right upgrades.

The Story Behind the “Special”

In 1987 the Optima Mid prototype made waves at the Worlds. A year later, Kyosho pushed the concept further with the Turbo Optima Mid Special—a long-wheelbase evolution built for calmer weight transfer and higher cornering speed. It sold out fast back then, and in 2025 it returns as Volume 18 of the Vintage Series. For long-time fans this is a reunion; for new drivers it is a rare chance to experience a classic that still makes sense on a modern layout.

Chassis Feel, Not Just Chassis Specs

The main deck is not a blunt slab of carbon. It is a carbon-and-FRP “sandwich,” which gives the car support with just enough give. On track that translates to a subtle twist through the corner rather than a skittery snap, so feedback comes through the tires instead of through sudden slides.

Add the extra 18 mm of wheelbase and the character is clear: stability you can lean on. That planted, low-drama attitude was the right call decades ago, and it still pays off today when grip changes lap to lap.

Retro Look or Modern Pace? Wheels and Tires

Kyosho lets you choose the vibe. The re-release revives the narrow 50 mm front package for the period-correct stance, but also offers properly offset 2.2" wheels so you can run contemporary tires without blowing out the width.

• Chasing the vintage feel: 50 mm keeps the look and friendly steering.
• Chasing lap time: 2.2" opens the door to modern compounds and profiles for a clear grip advantage.

Many owners keep both sets and swap based on track and mood.

Power: Battery Fitment and Real-World Picks

Choosing a pack is straightforward. The car is happiest with a standard hard-case 2S straight pack. Kyosho’s reference size is a 4000 mAh 2S, which fits easily. If you want stronger mid-throttle and fewer voltage sag moments, these upgrades have proven to be sweet spots:

• Higher punch for sprint racing: CNHL Racing Series 4900mAh 2S2P 120C (Combo, 2 Packs)
• Longer mains with balanced delivery: CNHL Racing Series 5200mAh 2S 100C

For the full list and sizing notes, see our battery guide for this car: LiPo Batteries for Kyosho Turbo Optima Mid Special.

How It Drives

Gold-anodized oil shocks nod to the era but deliver a very modern calm over chatter. With the long wheelbase and ball diffs, you can roll more speed into the corner, trust the rear on exit, and focus on throttle timing instead of saving slides. Tuning remains broad: tighten the diffs for forward bite on loose dirt, back them off slightly on high-grip carpet or prepped clay to ease rotation.

FAQ: Straight Answers From Track Experience

What is the practical difference versus the Optima Mid Custom Special?

Think of the Turbo Optima Mid Special as the “composed” setup: long wheelbase plus ball diffs for a planted rear that lets you commit on corner exit. The Custom/Custom Special path leaned into an alloy chassis with gear diffs for a firmer, more direct feel. If you like smooth, confidence-building traction, the Special fits. If you prefer a sharper, more mechanical feedback, the Custom line is closer to that taste.

50 mm vintage wheels or 2.2" modern tires?

It comes down to intent. If your goal is the original look and easygoing manners, the 50 mm package nails it. If you plan to race against contemporary buggies, 2.2" wheels with current tires are the cleanest path to more grip and consistency. Plenty of owners run both.

Which LiPo voltage and capacity work best?

2S hard-case straight packs are the sweet spot. Capacities in the 4000–5200 mAh range balance weight, runtime, and punch. Start with the two picks above; they cover quick sprints and longer club mains without drama.

Any build tips worth knowing?

Do not over-tighten plastic pivot bushings—arms should drop under their own weight. When fastening the belt cover, pre-index the screw with a slight reverse turn until it clicks, then tighten; it preserves threads and speeds service.

Bottom Line

This release is not a shelf-only remake. It carries the character that made the name “Optima” stick, then adds the details that make track days easier in 2025. Pair it with a solid 2S hard-case and you will get the blend of composure, punch, and runtime that keeps this platform relevant. Start here: Kyosho Turbo Optima Mid Special battery guide.