Buggies: New Generation vs. Previous Generation...thoughts?

[pumpkinfish]

What do you guys think is better for these conversions? The new, lightweight generation (i.e. MBX-6, MP9, DB8...) or the older heavier versions (MBX-5, MP777, ...). Myself I am thinking that with all of the ballistic torque and speed achieved with these electric motors, the heavier, previous generation buggies should be the ticket. I think there is a point where you need the weight to help settle things down. I have had a MP777 and 808 and actually preferred the MP777, sold the 808. As nitro buggies, the 808 was clearly better, but electric, the MP777 felt more stable and more importantly just as powerful and fast. All these new buggies coming out definitely has me getting itchy (especially because I love building them), but I am thinking that until the electric 1/8 scale class is able to fill a heat by themselves, we should still be competitive running with nitros.

What are your thoughts?

[lincpimp]

I like my hyper8, with batteries it is still under 8lbs, and handles great. I definately prefer it to the heavier hyper7, and mbx buggies that I have had.

[jhautz]

Lighter is better in just about evey situation IMO. If your lighter buggy didnt feel as stable as the heavy buggy you probably needed to go a bit lighter on the shock oils and springs to let them work better. Overall weight is a big driver to how you setup the suspension.

I drive the 808 and love it. It weighs in at 7.25lbs in full gear with the 4350mah 5s lipo pack. The nitro buggy also weighs in at just about exactly the same RTR. The suspension that works best for me actually feels pretty soft from what I was used to running on my older (1 lb heavier) XB8, but works just as well. Actually better.

[MetalMan]

I agree with jhautz, lighter is better. One advantage to a lighter buggy is you can get away with lighter components: motor and battery. That decrease in power will lower the weight even more, and will make the driving comparable to a heavier buggy with more power.