Thats a good point regarding spares, and it isnt something I have ever really considered before but maybe I should. When I had a Lazer FS2 with big bore shocks I never considered this and found out to my expense that the springs were 3 times the price of other brands...
I do think that the Xray holds sway at the moment, but it isnt a done deal by any means. I was looking at the Agama closer last night and it is one sexy car! I have no idea how it performs, but it looks gorgeous.
Like you say, I have the DEX210 but strangely the DNX408 has never been on my radar for 1/8 nitro.
I think if I were to draw up a short list right now my options would be :
Xray XB9
Xray XB808 (new, for the right price)
Agama A8
Losi 8
JQ THE car
I like the look of the AE too, but imperial measurements is a no go as it would mean needing to purchase a whole new tool kit.