CEN 2023 M-Sport Ford Puma Rally 1/8 Unboxing

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Updated 2024-02-08 by Nicky Lindon

The CEN 2023 M-SPORT Ford Puma Rally is a newcomer to the 1/8 scale rally car scene, joining the ranks of the HPI WR8. This addition offers rally enthusiasts much-needed and welcomed variety.

Being 
available only in electric, it will be interesting to see how it measures up against the HPI WR8 Flux. So, what does this offer in the
box?

Let's uncover the contents as we unbox this impressive-looking RC 
car.

Opening The Box

Upon opening the box (which, by the way, boasts striking artwork), you are immediately greeted by the absolutely stunning Puma Rally 1 car.

Additionally, the manual, housed in a bag with some stickers 
(including those for changing driver/co-driver names on the rear side
windows), is tucked alongside the body.

Notably, the car isn't secured 
with cable ties inside the box, allowing potential movement, unlike the WR8 which is securely fastened to prevent any shifting or damage
during transit.

At one end of the box rests the transmitter, cleverly 
packed to prevent any displacement and potential damage to the body.

The Body


Removing the CEN 2023 M-SPORT Ford Puma Rally from the box reveals an 
outstanding 1/8 rallying machine! The body is exquisitely modelled  after the current Ford Puma Rally 1 car.

It's refreshing to see an RC 
manufacturer create a modern RC body rather than an older model. While I do appreciate the charm of old school rally cars, having an RC car based on a current WRC car is a delightful change.

The CEN 2023 
M-SPORT Ford Puma Rally sports the stunning 2023 livery campaigned by driver Ott Tanak and co-driver Martin Jarveoia in the 2023 WRC season.

The body is truly beautiful, featuring the correct livery, meticulously crafted plastic-moulded rear diffuser, spoiler, mirrors,  and striking wheels fitted with grippy tarmac tires, giving it an authentic appearance.

The Chassis

Lifting the body cover reveals a well-designed chassis and electrical components. The tub-style chassis design minimizes debris ingress, showcasing CEN's thoughtful engineering. Capable of handling both 2S and 3S brushless power, equipped with a 3000kv sensor-less brushless  motor and 100A ESC, this car promises versatility. The ESC's Deans connector adds to its popularity by enabling the use of commonly available batteries. Moreover, it facilitates compatibility with HPI WR8 batteries, making it a convenient feature for owners of both models.
After closely inspecting the body and electrics, the only remaining component to examine is the transmitter—the CEN AMP 30 radio system.
This standard 2.4GHz radio system ensures trouble-free, complete control of your RC car.

Summary

I'm truly thrilled with my purchase of the CEN 2023 M-SPORT Ford PumaRally.

As a dedicated rally fan, I appreciate another manufacturer 
stepping in to challenge the long-standing dominance of the HPI WR8 with a 1/8 rally car.

With the recent launch of the Carisma M48S 
Subaru Impreza WRC, it's an exciting time for 1/8 RC rally enthusiasts.

Now, I just need to charge my 3S LiPo battery and hit the 
rally-style roads with this Puma, giving it a real run!

Stay tuned for 
exciting images and videos featuring this car; I'm certain I'll enjoy adding this to my RC rally collection