Well, hi from an old racer/new poster to a new racer.
My advice is different from everyone else.
I say 2WD is the best way to start if you are serious about racing. It will make you a better driver eventually because it ain't so easy.
I started back in '85 without ever going to a club, and,ok it wasn't the best car around that I chose, being an almost entirely plastic 'Wild One' from Tamyia.
But, DAMN, it looks so good!
After almost 12 months I had broken it sufficiently to make me realize that i NEEDED to spend more money.
I went to 4x4 and didn't buy another 2WD for 5 years.
But you'll have more fun sooner if you go 4x4, and you've obviously had a go with yer buddy's car.
Hey, if I want to live up to my name, there's a
B44 going on ebay. Nowt to do with myself as I live in Devon, but it's exactly what I would go for. An empty car, that will allow me to buy some secondhand batteries and electronics from other club members and save a packet over the new price. Alternatively, they're obviously available new online, or at your local shop.
I love Associated and Schumacher equally, they are both top quality. I also love the X-RAY chassis, which is insane quality engineering and very expensive.
The only other thing I can say is, try and install some sort of bumper, like we all had back in the 80' !! I have no idea why people stopped using them. it will protect your front suspension arms/steering while you are crashing the hell out of your first car!
T-Bone R/C Racing
Best of luck buddy, and have fun. You will!
Cheapo.