NEWBIE - Help on Purchasing

[stuttgart]

Hi...I'm just getting into RC cars - right now I have a piece of crap Toys R US RC car, but I want something that's got more umph, yet I'm not a car expert and don't necessarily want a car that's easily modified - i'm looking for something good out of box. can anyone recommend a good off road - dune buggy or monster truck - in $150-$350 range that has decent speed - and rugged? I've been looking at E-Maxx and that seems pretty nice. any others that compete or is that top of line for price?

Also as far as sprint racers...anyone recommend one in $150 range that has decent speed and is somewhat rugged? any input is appreciated....thanks a lot.

[NitroDrew]

Think: Nitro!
There are many ready to run trucks/cars by a few different manufacturers (HPI, Traxxas, others). Or you could build it yourself (which is part of the fun for me! http://www.rccaraction.com/ubb/biggrin.gif) What could be best for someone else may not be best for you, and likewise. Take a look at what your local hobby shop stocks parts for and try to head in that direction. It'll save you headaches later on down the road.
HAVE FUN! http://www.rccaraction.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

[NervousXtian]

get electric... tamiya kits are cheap and fun to put together (the little drawings in the instructions of the lil asian kids is comedy)... kyosho makes some cool rally kits that a Ready-to-Run for about 200bucks.. HPI makes some good truck kits (heard there not real rugged tho).. the E-Maxx is sweet.. but would put you WAY over budget (360 for kit, 2 to 6 batteries at 15 to 20 bucks a piece, 50 for a peak charger).. gets pretty spendy..

couple ideas

[RCJunkie]

I think the TRAXXAS stampede and rustler are really good for a beginner. You get a very tough car thats pretty quick and nimble out of the box. One version of the RTR comes with a radio and electric speed control for well under 200 bucks which leaves plenty of money for a couple inexpensive cargers (duratrax or MRC) and a few battery packs and still be within your budget. IMHO stick with electric for your first car. Less maintenence and less aggrivation to deal with

[FastDad]

Just intrested to know how you came about the screen name Stuttgart, I often travel to Stuttgart to watch Vfb Stuttgart play in soccer matches, my German wife was born there, just nosey I guess.