Hi Chris,
If you going 1/8th Nitro racing you will need a buddy to pit and someone who knows how to tune engines. Go to your local club for 1/10th and 1/8th and find out more.
If you are getting a car get a good make like kyosho, mugen or Losi.
Oh and Chris Kyosho does win the big races, Just ask Tebo, And i guarantee it will win the Kyosho Masters this year.