Slash vs Rustler: What Differentiates Them in The First Place?

In the market of RC cars, both Slash and Rustler are quite popular because of their versatility. If you are new to this and are wondering which one would better suit you by comparing slash vs rustler, this article might help you.

Traxxas slash is better in being in off-road usages on various terrains. On the other hand, Traxxas Rustler is better for on-road performances and raw high speed.

Both types of cars have their similarities and differences. The one best for you will depend on your usage. Here is the ultimate comparison guide for your convenience to help you choose your vehicle.

Slash vs Rustler: The Ultimate Comparison

Both slash and rustler are Traxxas series vehicles. The slash was produced in 2010 and the rustler in 2012. They are both racing cars of high abilities and speed. However, they have different kinds of strengths.

The slash is a great short-course truck best for off-road performances. It can achieve a top speed of 30 miles per hour for general models and 60 miles per hour for high-end models. It has a small body with a more dynamic design.

On the other hand, the rustler is heavier and perfect for on-road performances such as going on trails or crossing deep snow or mud. Rustler is a stadium truck with increased agility and durability. It can gain up to 35 miles per hour speed while racing.

Let’s take a look at the general properties of both of these vehicles.

Types	Rustler	Slasher
Price	More	Less
Design	Dynamic	Rugged
Body	Smaller	Larger
Wheels	Bigger, 2/4WD	Smaller, 2/4WD
Ground Clearance	1.1 inches	3.5 inches
Acceleration and Top Speed	More	Less
Handling	Easier	Harder
Durability	Less	More
Acrobat Ability	More	Less
Special Feature	Self-righting	–

Body

Slasher has a larger body with a longer chassis. It has front and rear bumpers. Because of its bigger and heavier build, it is much less aerodynamic. Whereas, the rustler is a smaller truck with great agility.

Battery Power

There is a big difference between the kind of battery these vehicles use for running. The slash uses a LiPo battery which provides more power to the vehicle. That results in more speed as well. The LiPo battery has an average power rating of 7.4 volts and 11 amps.

On the other hand, the Rustler uses a NiMH battery. On flat surfaces, this battery can achieve up to 35 miles per hour top speed for the vehicle. The NiMH battery has an average power rating of 7.2 volts and 9 amps.

Both kinds of batteries need recharging, and once charged, the battery can last for several races or trips. The LiPo battery recharges pretty quickly. It only takes one and a half hours for the Lipo battery of the slasher to charge fully.

The NiMH battery takes pretty long to recharge completely. It can take up to 8 hours for the battery to fully charge.

Ground Clearance

Since the slasher has a bigger chassis, its wheelbase of it is also pretty high. The slasher has a wheelbase of 3.5 inches.

This ensures low friction and better protection for the zigzag areas in the wheels. The wheels absorb more shock, therefore, provide more ground clearance.

On the other hand, there are four oil-filled shocks on the rustler. Therefore, it is quite easy for this vehicle to jump over and drift over rocks or obstacles.

The Rustler has a pretty shorter wheelbase. It is only 1.2 inches shorter than the slash. It has much less ground clearance than the slasher, making it unsuitable for normal use.

Top Speed

There can be two variations in both of these vehicles in case of their top speed and acceleration. 2WD and 4WD offer variations even between the versions of the vehicles.

In the case of 2WD, the slasher can get a top speed of 30 miles per hour, while the rustler can get a top speed of 35 miles per hour.

In the case of 4WD, these top speeds can double vehemently. The 4 WD slasher speed can also differ based on the battery power. However, the 4WD rustler gets a top speed of up to 65 miles per hour incredibly.

Getting a proper and high-powered battery for your slasher or rustler is mandatory in achieving their peak top speed.

Internal Build

The slasher has a Titan 12T Motor and XL-5 Electronic Speed Control. It also has high-torque waterproof steering. These offer a very responsive and top-speed performance of the vehicle.

Plus, it has an internal damage-resistant antenna. The TQ 2.4GHz Radio System in it has no channels and frequencies.

On the other hand, the rustler has a Titan 12T motor and XL-5 Electronic Speed Control. Despite having a smaller body, it has bigger wheels. That lets the vehicle have more control while driving.

Durability

The slasher has a relatively stronger and bigger build. Its front and rear bumpers can endure a lot of strain and bashing, making this one more durable.

However, this build also prevents the slasher from being good at acrobatics of any kind.

On the contrary, the rustler has a less durable body due to its smaller build. But it makes up for it by being astounding in speed and agility. It is more aerodynamic and can jump perfectly.

Which One Should I Choose: Slash vs Rustler?

No one else can decide which of these two would be the best for you except yourself. To give some pointers, we can only highlight the best aspects of each.

The slasher can be a multipurpose RC car that you can use to race or just drift and have fun in your backyard. It comes with a bit of everything and can be customizable according to your needs.

If you want a usable off-road vehicle and have no trouble with spending for it, then you can go for the slasher.

If you’re on a tight budget and looking for more speed rather than durability then go for rustler. It is excellent for jumping and stunts because of its lightweight build.

Regarding more speed, there is no doubt that rustler would be the best with its 35-65 mph speed.

Read Also: RC Car Parts List

Frequently Asked Questions

So, if you still have questions regarding Slash vs Rustler, then going through these FAQs will ensure you all your answers.

How Much Horsepower Does the Slasher Have?

The slasher can have a horsepower of about 450-900. The specific horsepower of it will depend on the model you get.

Are the Slasher and Rustler Parts Interchangeable?

Yes, the slash and rustler parts are interchangeable. The 2WD stampede, 2WD slash, 2WD rustler, and bandit are almost identical. So, you can interchange them.

Why Is My Rustler Going Slower than Usual?

The rustler can go slower if the battery is not fully charged. Another reason could be a damaged or dirty motor. Both of these can slow down your rustler from reaching the full 35 mph.

How Fast Is the Slasher and The Rustler?

The slasher has a top speed of 30 mph, and the rustler has a top speed of 35 mph. However, a 4WD rustler can get up to 65 mph top speed.

Bottom Line

Now that we are clear about the differences and the similarities between the slasher and vs rustler, it might be difficult to answer which one is the best in general. They both have their unique features and functions.

If you want to choose one of them for your use, try to go through every feature mentioned in this guide first.

Compare them to your needs and what kind of service you seek from these vehicles to choose the best one for yourself. We hope we were able to help you make the big decision!