[markwilliamson2001]

I have driven both the Losi and EMB-1. The EMB-1 is better out the box IMO.
You don't really need any further upgrades but the rear CVDs, some Losi mini8 soft springs and some thicker diff oils for tuning are all that is required.

The Losi seems to have died out on the national scene, and the diffs aren't sealed properly like the EMB-1 so you cant easily use diff oils for tuning like in the EMB-1, however the EMB-1 diffs leak a bit.

The weak point on the Losi is the front lower hinge pin holders. The alloy tuning parts are quite expensive. The same parts are steel on the EMB-1.

If it was me, I would buy the EMB-1 2015-16 model, some CVDS for the rear as the dog ones make on-power handling a little odd.

I bought two cars. I then had a motor, speedo, servo(s) and a whole car of spares. I bought the RTR and racing kit.

The alloy chassis is better and more consistent.

20k front oil and 10k rear oil in the diffs helped me, Losi mini8 springs and shortening the rear link made the car easier to drive and more natural. The car is smoother with a 20t pinion on.

The Carisma is generally recognised as the easier car to drive but does need some hop ups such as metal motor mount, gear diffs etc.
Hope this helps
Mark