MN Model MN300S RC Car Review: What Has Been Upgraded from the MN300?
The MN Model MN300S RC Car is an upgraded version of the MN300. Instead of simply changing the appearance, the MN300S has been improved in several key areas, including the chassis structure, axles, tires, electronics, and suspension. So, with the higher price, is the MN300S worth buying?
1. Portal Axles Are the Biggest Upgrade
The biggest change on the MN Model MN300S RC Car is the upgrade from the MN300's straight axles to portal axles.
The portal axle design significantly increases ground clearance. Combined with the larger stock tires, the MN300S offers better ground clearance and improved off-road capability when driving over gravel, uneven terrain, and small obstacles.
The MN300S also features gears and bearings inside the axle. The MN Model MN300 RC Car does not have axle bearings, and long-term friction between the plastic components can cause wear. The new bearing design reduces friction and wear while helping prevent excessive wheel outward movement.
2. Improved Tires and Adjustable Suspension
The MN300S uses a larger beadlock-style tire design. Compared with the removable stock tires on the MN300, the new design holds the tires more securely and helps prevent them from coming loose during crawling.
For suspension, the MN Model MN300S RC Car comes with adjustable spring shocks, allowing you to fine-tune the suspension stiffness.
However, the stock setup has a relatively large gap between the tires and wheel arches, creating a noticeable "high stance" appearance. If you prefer a more realistic scale look, adjusting the suspension to lower the body can significantly improve the overall stance.
3. Independent Electronics Make Upgrades Easier
The electronics are another major improvement on the MN300S.
The MN Model MN300 RC Car uses an integrated control board, which can make upgrades such as replacing the motor or servo and adding lighting more complicated.
The MN300S uses an independent ESC and receiver, providing much greater flexibility for future modifications. Upgrading the motor, servo, or lighting system is much easier.
Although the MN300S costs more, its more upgrade-friendly electronics can potentially reduce the cost and difficulty of future modifications.
4. 280 Brushed Motor for Low-Speed Crawling
The MN300S continues to use a 280 brushed motor rather than focusing on high speed.
Its positioning is clear: low-speed driving, high torque, crawling, and scale-style driving.
In actual driving, the full proportional throttle provides smooth and precise low-speed control, while the 4WD system delivers sufficient torque for crawling.
Therefore, the MN Model MN300S RC Car is not designed for high-speed racing. If you enjoy slow-speed crawling and scale driving, its power system is well suited to its intended use.
5. More Fun with Towing
The MN300S comes with a trailer hitch, allowing it to be paired with a small trailer for simulated hauling and transportation.
The vehicle also includes various decorative accessories that can be installed according to your preferences.
These features do not directly improve performance, but they add more possibilities and make the MN Model MN300S RC Car more enjoyable to play with.
6. MN300 vs. MN300S
| Feature | MN Model MN300 RC Car | MN Model MN300S RC Car |
|---|---|---|
| Axle | Straight Axle | Portal Axle |
| Ground Clearance | Standard | Higher |
| Off-Road Capability | Standard | Improved |
| Axle Bearings | No | Yes |
| Tires | Standard Tires | Larger Beadlock-Style Tires |
| Electronics | Integrated Control Board | Independent ESC + Receiver |
| Modifications | More Difficult | Easier |
| Suspension | Standard | Adjustable |
| Motor | 280 Brushed | 280 Brushed |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
7. Pros and Cons
Pros:
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Portal axles improve ground clearance and off-road capability
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Larger tires provide more secure mounting
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Axle bearings help reduce wear
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Independent electronics make upgrades easier
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Full proportional throttle and steering
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Adjustable suspension
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Trailer towing capability
Cons:
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Higher price than the MN300
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Stock stance has a noticeable "high stance" appearance
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Suspension adjustment may be needed for a more realistic look
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The 280 brushed motor is not intended for high-speed driving
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8. Is the MN300S Worth Buying?
If you already own an MN Model MN300 RC Car and mainly use it for casual driving, there is no need to replace it just for the upgrade.
However, if you enjoy crawling, off-road driving, and DIY modifications, the MN300S offers several worthwhile improvements. In particular, the portal axles, larger tires, axle bearings, and independent electronics provide genuine functional benefits.
If you do not own an MN300 yet and are looking for your first RC crawler, the MN Model MN300S RC Car is the better choice from the perspective of overall configuration and future upgrade potential.
Overall, the MN Model MN300S RC Car is more than just a cosmetic update. It is an upgraded version of the MN300 designed to improve off-road capability, durability, and modification convenience.