I was exactly in the same boat a few months ago.
Like you I got hold of a Tamiya kit to cut my teeth one - a Double Blaze was what I managed to pick up on Ebay.
But like you I wanted something that would be me racing, I picked up a 2nd hand Associated B44 on ebay - just a rolling chassis and with the help and advice on chaps on here and also the guys at my local club (Silverstone) I got my car up and running.
I went for a set of powerful but good quality LiPos from ebay, a HobbyWing speedo (which is a cheaper version of a Speed Passion) again from ebay, and was given a 10.5t Orion motor by a club member. Radio gear wise I opted for a Etronix stick 2.4Ghz transmitter and receiver. All have been excellent and have really helped in get into RC.
One thing I would suggest is stock up on parts such as suspension arms and shock towers as these are the sort of things that you will get through as you get to grips with the car (because of crashes).
Good luck and have fun
