For a first RC vehicle, I would go with an electric, because they are much simpler to work on and tune. Tamiya makes great kits for most beginners. Nitro is faster and has longer run times, yet it more expensive. Try these web sites:
www.towerhobbies.com www.stormerhobbies.com www.rccaraction.com
they all have good information, and the two sites which are retailers have some of the best prices in the industry.
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