Are you ready to unleash some serious off-road mayhem? When it comes to legendary RC monster trucks, the HPI Savage line stands tall, and two titans often go head-to-head in enthusiast discussions: the HPI Savage X and the HPI Savage XL.
Both offer that signature Savage durability and raw power that RC fans have come to love. But what truly sets these beasts apart? If you’re trying to decide which colossal truck deserves a spot in your garage, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ll dive deep into the key differences, from their imposing sizes to their performance characteristics, helping you make an informed choice for your next RC adventure.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | hpi savage x | xl |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Size | .21 cu in | .21 cu in |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Chassis | TVP (Twin Vertical Plate) | TVP (Twin Vertical Plate) |
| Suspension | Double Wishbone | Double Wishbone |
| Shocks | Oil-filled | Oil-filled |
| Tires | Block Pattern | Block Pattern |
| Body Style | Truck | Truck |
| Scale | 1/10 | 1/10 |
| Radio System | 2.4GHz | 2.4GHz |
| Differential | Gear Differential | Gear Differential |
| Waterproof | Yes | Yes |
| Ready-to-Run | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Chassis Length & Wheelbase
- Hpi Savage X: The Savage X features a standard wheelbase, offering a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Its more compact size can make it feel more agile in tighter turns.
- Xl: The Savage XL boasts an extended chassis and wheelbase, significantly increasing its stability, especially at higher speeds and on rough terrain. This longer platform can sometimes feel less nimble in quick direction changes.
- Winner: XL
Suspension & Handling
- Hpi Savage X: The Savage X’s suspension is tuned for aggressive bashing and is known for its durability. It handles jumps and impacts well, providing a responsive feel for the driver.
- Xl: With its longer wheelbase, the Savage XL offers enhanced stability over bumps and rough surfaces. The suspension is designed to soak up larger impacts, contributing to a smoother ride over challenging terrain.
- Winner: XL
Engine Power & Performance
- Hpi Savage X: Typically equipped with a powerful .21 or .25 engine, the Savage X delivers explosive acceleration and high top speeds, making it a formidable basher. Its power-to-weight ratio is excellent for thrilling performance.
- Xl: The Savage XL often comes with larger displacement engines (like the .28 or even larger options), providing even more torque and power. This extra grunt is beneficial for pulling larger loads or tackling extreme inclines.
- Winner: XL
Durability & Materials
- Hpi Savage X: The Savage X is renowned for its “bulletproof” reputation, featuring robust composite and metal parts designed to withstand extreme abuse. Its design prioritizes resilience for hardcore bashing.
- Xl: Building on the Savage legacy, the XL also features extremely durable components, often with reinforced parts to handle the increased forces associated with its larger size and potentially higher speeds.
- Winner: Tie
Body Style & Aesthetics
- Hpi Savage X: The Savage X comes with a variety of aggressive and stylish truck bodies, designed to look the part of a high-performance off-road machine. These bodies are often pre-painted for convenience.
- Xl: The Savage XL often features more imposing and larger-scale body shells that complement its extended chassis. These bodies can enhance its aggressive stance and off-road presence.
- Winner: XL
Tire & Wheel Options
- Hpi Savage X: The Savage X comes with aggressive, large-diameter off-road tires that provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces. The wheel hubs are standard for the Savage line.
- Xl: The Savage XL often features even larger and wider tires to match its extended platform and increased power. These tires offer superior grip and a more planted feel, especially in loose or uneven conditions.
- Winner: XL
Scale & Size
- Hpi Savage X: The Savage X is a 1/10th scale monster truck, offering a substantial but manageable size for most RC enthusiasts. It’s large enough to be impressive but not overly cumbersome.
- Xl: The Savage XL is a larger-scale monster truck, often considered closer to a 1/8th scale in overall footprint due to its extended chassis. This larger size contributes to its increased stability and imposing presence.
- Winner: XL
Modifications & Upgrades
- Hpi Savage X: The Savage X platform has a massive aftermarket support, with countless hop-up parts available for customization and performance enhancement. It’s easy to find parts to tailor it to your specific needs.
- Xl: While also having good aftermarket support, the XL’s specific parts might be slightly less abundant than the standard Savage X due to its niche. However, many standard Savage parts are still compatible.
- Winner: hpi savage x
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Stability | xl |
| Classic Savage Experience | hpi savage x |
| Ease of Maneuverability | hpi savage x |
| Imposing Presence | xl |
| Durability (General) | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Engine Power: Both the HPI Savage X and XL are equipped with robust .21 cubic inch engines, offering ample power for thrilling off-road adventures and high-speed runs.
- Drivetrain: A reliable 4-wheel drive system is standard on both models, providing excellent traction and stability across various terrains, from loose dirt to rocky paths.
- Chassis Design: The iconic TVP (Twin Vertical Plate) chassis is a hallmark of the Savage line, offering exceptional durability and a low center of gravity for improved handling on both the X and XL.
- Suspension System: Both trucks feature a double wishbone suspension with oil-filled shock absorbers. This setup is designed to absorb impacts effectively and provide consistent performance over bumps and jumps.
- Durability: The HPI Savage reputation for toughness extends to both the X and XL. They are built to withstand the rigors of bashing and aggressive driving, making them suitable for enthusiasts of all levels.
- Ready-to-Run (rtr): For convenience, both the Savage X and XL come as Ready-to-Run packages. This means they are pre-assembled and include the necessary radio system, allowing users to get out and drive almost immediately after unboxing.
Hpi Savage X Vs Xl Buying Guide
Purpose and Terrain
Consider where you’ll be driving your Savage. The Savage X, with its slightly more compact design and nimbleness, excels in tighter, more technical off-road environments where agility is key. If you’re looking for a truck that can navigate challenging trails, jump larger obstacles, and handle rougher, more open terrain with stability, the Savage XL often has the edge.
The XL’s longer wheelbase provides increased stability at higher speeds and over uneven surfaces, making it a more planted performer in open spaces. Conversely, the X’s shorter stance can be advantageous for quick direction changes and maneuvering through dense foliage or rocky areas. (See Also: Demeyere 5 Plus Vs Atlantis )
Durability and Maintenance
Both the Savage X and XL are renowned for their robust construction, but the XL, often being a larger platform, can sometimes feel even more substantial. Think about the level of abuse you anticipate. If you’re planning on extremely aggressive bashing and frequent rollovers, the XL’s extended chassis might offer a slight advantage in distributing impact forces.
Maintenance on both is generally straightforward for an RC vehicle of this caliber. However, the larger components on the XL might mean slightly different tools or techniques for certain tasks. Consider your comfort level with working on RC cars when making your decision.
Performance and Power
The Savage X and XL are typically powered by similar engines, but the difference in wheelbase and overall weight can subtly influence their performance characteristics. The Savage XL, with its increased length and often heavier build, might feel more planted and less prone to traction rolling during hard cornering compared to the X.
However, the Savage X’s slightly lighter and more nimble nature can translate to quicker acceleration and a more responsive feel in certain situations. If you prioritize raw top speed and stability, the XL might be favored. If a more agile and “darty” feel is desired, the X could be the better choice. (See Also: Nikon 50 1 8 Vs 1 4 )
Budget and Modifications
When considering your budget, remember that both the Savage X and XL are premium RC vehicles, and their initial purchase price is a significant factor. However, the cost of upgrades and spare parts can also add up. Generally, both platforms have a vast aftermarket support system, allowing for extensive customization.
The Savage XL, being a larger platform, might sometimes have slightly more expensive replacement parts due to their size. However, this is often a marginal difference. Think about your long-term modification plans. If you envision a heavily customized rig, ensure the chosen platform has the parts you desire readily available and within your budget.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy hpi savage x If…
- You are looking for a classic, well-established platform for bashing and general RC fun.
- You appreciate the iconic Savage look and handling in a slightly more compact package.
- You want a reliable and durable entry into the nitro RC truck world without the extra length of the XL.
Buy xl If…
- You desire increased stability and improved handling characteristics due to the longer wheelbase.
- You are looking for a more imposing presence and a slightly different driving feel.
- You want the added benefit of the longer chassis for potentially better performance over rough terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Hpi Savage X and XL?
The primary distinction lies in their dimensions. The Savage XL is an extended version of the Savage X, featuring a longer wheelbase and overall chassis length. This translates to increased stability, particularly at higher speeds and over rough terrain, while the Savage X is generally more agile and nimble due to its shorter stature.
Which Savage is better for beginners?
Both are advanced RC vehicles, but the Savage X, with its slightly more manageable size and quicker response, might be marginally easier for a beginner to get accustomed to. However, any beginner should be prepared for the learning curve associated with nitro-powered, high-performance RC trucks. (See Also: Samsung Pro Vs Evo 850 )
Can I upgrade a Savage X to XL specifications?
Yes, it is often possible to convert a Savage X to a Savage XL. This typically involves purchasing an XL chassis extension kit and potentially longer driveshafts and other related components. Many aftermarket parts are available to facilitate such conversions.
Which Savage is more durable?
Both are exceptionally durable, but the Savage XL’s longer wheelbase and potentially heavier build can offer a slight advantage in stability and impact distribution over extremely rough terrain. However, the Savage X is still a very robust and capable machine that can withstand significant abuse.
What kind of terrain is each Savage best suited for?
The Savage X excels in more technical, tighter off-road courses where its agility is beneficial. The Savage XL, with its enhanced stability, is better suited for open spaces, high-speed runs, and navigating larger obstacles with confidence due to its longer footprint.
Final Verdict
The Hpi Savage X and XL are both legendary in the RC world, offering incredible power and durability. While the Savage X provides a more agile and nimble driving experience, the Savage XL’s extended wheelbase offers superior stability and a planted feel, especially at higher speeds and on rougher terrain. For overall versatility and a more forgiving driving platform, the XL edges out the X.
Winner: Hpi Savage XL