Tamiya Cars Revive Collectors’ Passion at The Brickyard
The Tamiya car craze of the 1990s has made a triumphant return in the Philippines. At Ayala Malls Manila Bay, enthusiasts recently gathered for a special “build-and-race-your-car” event, organized by Ferdie Kahn, the owner of The Brickyard. Tamiya cars—remote-controlled and mini-four-wheel drive models—are once again captivating a new generation of collectors and racers, proving the timeless appeal of this hobby.
Ferdie Kahn’s Journey from Hobby to Business
Ferdie Kahn’s love for Tamiya cars began as a child, and over the years, he turned that passion into a business. In 2018, Kahn opened The Brickyard at Glorietta 2 with Shunsaku Tamiya, the son of Tamiya Corporation’s founder, joining the celebration. “It was a childhood hobby, and I’ve always known there’s a strong following for Tamiya here,” Kahn explained. 
Kahn envisioned The Brickyard as more than just a store—it’s a place where collectors, builders, and racers can come together to enjoy their shared hobby. “I wanted to introduce the joy of Tamiya to more people, whether they’re kids or adults,” he added.
The Jeepney: A Filipino Tamiya Icon
Kahn’s pride in his Filipino heritage is evident in the success of his Jeepney Tamiya model. “Our Jeepney version became one of Tamiya’s best-selling models,” Kahn said. The model is now displayed at Tamiya’s official store in Tokyo, a testament to its international appeal.
Kahn also revealed plans for a new Filipino Tamiya car, currently in the design phase. “We want to create something that reflects the Philippines, incorporating local symbols like the Philippine eagle,” he shared.
The Thriving World of Tamiya Racing
Tamiya racing has built a strong following in the Philippines, and Kahn organizes competitions that allow local racers to qualify for international tournaments. “The passion for racing here is incredible,” Kahn said. “At our events, we usually have 500 to 700 participants, all deeply focused on their cars.”
In 2026, the Philippines will host the Tamiya World Challenge, further solidifying its place in the global Tamiya community. Filipino racers are already making their mark internationally, competing in prestigious events in Japan, the U.S., and Thailand.
Entry-Level Kits for New Collectors
For beginners, Kahn recommends starting with mini-four-wheel drive kits, which are affordable and easy to assemble. “A starter kit costs around P650 to P1,100, while the more advanced RC cars for competitions are priced at about P15,000,” Kahn explained.
The latest trend in Tamiya racing includes partially upgraded cars, which offer beginners an opportunity to enhance their vehicles without full customization. Box-tub races, where participants build cars straight from the box and race without modifications, are also growing in popularity.
More Than a Hobby: Building Community Through Collectibles
Kahn’s goal for The Brickyard goes beyond selling cars—he wants to foster a sense of community. “It’s fulfilling to see people finally owning and racing the Tamiya cars they dreamed of as children,” Kahn said. “I’m living the dream of a million people, and that makes this journey worthwhile.”
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