There are two monsters that we’re going to compare today: Traxxas Bandit VS Rustler.
These two RC cars are so remarkable for their high performance especially with the VXL version that comes with a brushless motor.
And by the way, there are multiple versions of each one of those two RC cars. For Traxxas Bandit, there are 2 versions. the 2WD version, and the VXL version that we will compare today.
On the other hand, Traxxas Rustler comes with 3 versions. The 2WD version, the 4×4 version, and the VXL version that we will compare in this article!
So before taking your decision, you should consider the fact that there are multiple versions of each. So, you should which version you want.
Also, in this article, we won’t show only the differences and similarities of these RC monsters. But, we will show you also how to choose and what to choose to make sure you’ve taken the right decision.
So, let’s get this comparison start in the next few lines…
Ps. You can check our full review of the Traxxas Bandit VXL from here and Traxxas Rustler 4×4 VXL’s full review from here.
Read Also: Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Best Review. Is it worth it?
Traxxas Bandit VS Rustler Design
The Body
Traxxas Bandit and Traxxas Rustler are so different when it comes to their bodies. In fact, Traxxas Bandit is not only different than the Rustler but from all Traxxas RC cars.
It is the only Traxxas RC car that comes as a dragster. That makes it look cool!
On the other hand, Traxxas Rustler has also a different body, but it is similar to the Traxxas E-Revo. It’s a sporty aerodynamic-friendly RC car.
The first thing you’d notice when comparing those RC cars is that there is a difference in their height. Actually, Traxxas Bandit is a little shorter than the Rustler.
Also, The clipless body of the Traxxas Rustler is covering almost the whole chassis. While for Traxxas Bandit, the body is smaller, has clips on it, and covers everything except the front and rear shocks.
Despite being different, there are a lot of parts that those RC cars have in common. And one of the remarkable things you will notice is the spoiler.
Yes, they have a spoiler. However, the spoiler of the Bandit is so much bigger than the one of the Rustler.
Other than that, everything concerning the bodies of those two is different.
Read Also: Traxxas Bandit VXL Review! Is It The Strongest Cheapest Supercar?
Traxxas Bandit VS Rustler Chassis
When it comes to the chassis, there are some similarities. The first one is that Traxxas Rustler and Traxxas Bandit have the same platform as Slash.
That feature will prove to you the big handling ability those RC cars have.
Also, despite being bigger than the Bandit, Traxxas Rustler still has almost the same low center of gravity as the Bandit. But the Bandit is longer!
The wheels as well have a big role in the performance of an RC car. For Traxxas Rustler, it contains 4 big and thick wheels that give it an aggressive look!
However, for Traxxas Bandit VXL, the front wheels are different than the rear wheels.
In fact, the front tires are smaller and thinner. While the rear wheels look wider and stronger. And the reason why the Bandit is built like that is that it’s a 2WD vehicle.
So most of the traction and power comes from the rear wheels, not the front!
Internal parts Comparison
When it comes to the internal structure of these RC monsters. They’re also totally different.
The main reason because of the driving system they have. The Bandit VXL is a 2WD vehicle while Traxxas Rustler 4×4 VXL is a 4WD RC car.
This doesn’t mean that the Bandit is less powerful. Because this car is faster than a Traxxas X-Maxx! Shocked?
We will talk about that later in the performance section.
And by the way, the chassis of Traxxas Bandit VXL looks the same as the one of the Stampede 2WD with the motor on the back!
So, if you already what a Traxxas Stampede means, then, I think that you have an idea about the power of the Bandit.
The Rustler on the other hand has the same structure as most other 4WD Traxxas RC cars.
Now, choosing which one to bring home depends on what you prefer. There are some who love 2WD vehicles, and others love the 4Wd system.
Whether you choose the 4WD or the 2WD, for these 2RC cars, it doesn’t make a difference because they race RC cars! They’re more focused on street racing and speed, and a little bit on off-roading!
Read Also: Traxxas Rustler vs Stampede Comparison. Which is Better?
Traxxas Bandit VS Rustler Performance
When it comes to Traxxas Bandit VS Rustler’s performance comparison, you might say that Traxxas Rustler is obviously the winner. But let me tell you: A lot of interesting facts are about to shock you!
Concerning the performance of Traxxas Rustler 4×4 VXL, it comes with a Velineon® 3500kV Brushless Motor and a VXL-3s™ Waterproof Electronic Speed Control.
By adding these two to a 3s Lipo battery, this RC car can reach up to 65+ mph! This is really crazy.
Now that you’ve seen the power of the Traxxas Rustler 4×4 VXL, what do you think about the Bandit?
Well, let me tell you that the Bandit is actually faster than that!
Traxxas Bandit 4×4 comes with a Velineon 3500 motor that is also brushless and VXL-3s Electronic Speed Control also. You can reach a top speed of 70+ mph on the Bandit by adding a 3s Lipo battery as well.
Despite being a 2WD vehicle, it’s really a beast! And I think that one of the main reasons why it can go that fast with just 2 wheels is the weight! It’s so lightweight!
So, these are just numbers, what about the reality, is there a difference?
Well, the performance of those two RC cars differs depending on the road. For a Traxxas Rustler, it is capable of going on a normal road as well as off-road with no problem.
First because of the 4WD system that allows it to overcome any obstacles. And second, it has really some big reliable wheels. Also, Traxxas Rustler 4×4 VXL is good with high jumps!
On the other hand, Traxxas Bandit is super perfect on the normal road. However, it can find some difficulties when it comes to off-road. But, you don’t have to worry!
Due to the big ability of this RC car to be upgraded, you can upgrade the wheels and tires to others bigger and capable of doing anything. (If you’d like to see more details about the Traxxas Bandit VXL upgrades, click here).
Another feature that Traxxas Rustler comes with is the wheelie bar. This is not something available in the stock Traxxas Bandit VXL, but you can simply get an aftermarket wheelie bar and link it to it.
That will help you a lot with keeping your Bandit in the ground since it is a 2WD. Otherwise, it would lift up every time you try to make a quick acceleration.
Handling and Reliability
When it comes to the handling and the reliability of Traxxas Bandit VS Rustler, or me, they’re one of the best. Why?
As I said earlier, the platform of these 2 RC cars comes from the same platform of the Slash. And, if you’re familiar with Traxxas RC cars, you’ll know that the Slash is one of the most reliable RC vehicles.
Secondly, even if they break, you can upgrade them easily. Simply because their parts are available everywhere. And a lot of them are common except for the gears.
So, there is no need to worry about that!
Now, after seeing the performance comparison between Traxxas Bandit VS Rustler. I see they both have almost the same performance overall.
Read Also: Traxxas Slash 4×4 VXL vs Traxxas Rustler 4×4 VXL. Which Is Better?
Traxxas Bandit VS Rustler Upgrades & Price
Upgrading the Traxxas Bandit VXL and Rustler 4×4 VXL is so easy and doesn’t require long searching for the parts.
Because they’re available. And for me, I see that upgrading is so important especially that Traxxas Stock RC cars come with plastic for most of the parts.
So, you can upgade anything from the body, the shocks, the suspension arms, the brushless motor (If you have the brushed version), to the wheels!
You can customize your RC car as you wish. No complaints!
What about the price?
Both cars have medium price points. However, Traxxas Rustler 4×4 VXL is a little bit more expensive than Traxxas Bandit.
And this is because of the additional parts that come with the 4WD system.
You can check their prices by clicking on the buttons below:
Read Also: Traxxas Hoss vs Rustler 4×4 VXL. Which One Is The Best For You?
Final Judgement
After reviewing Traxxas Bandit VS Rustler’s design, performance, and upgrades. In the end, I see that these 2 RC monsters are similar a little bit in their performance and their upgrades.
But different in terms of design and shape.
Here are the most recognized features for each one:
Traxxas Rustler 4×4 VXL
- Sporty Design
- Clipless Body
- Big Wheels
- 4WD System
- High Jumps
- High Top Speed 65 mph
- Great Handling
Traxxas Bandit VXL
- Special And Different Design
- Top High Speed 70 mph
- Great Handling
- Big Ability For Upgrades
- High Jumps
- 2WD System
So, what do you think about those monsters? Which Is Better for you, Traxxas Rustler or Bandit?
I’d love to hear back from you in the comment section below!
You can check their prices by clicking the buttons below:
