RE: Newbie wants in
unless your a hardcore racer, a $300 radio is pointless, i use a flysky gt3b 2.4ghz system, for $35 all the adjustments you need and a solid signal.
you also dont need a major charger, buy a hobbyking/hobbypartz $50 charger, charges everything, balance discharge mapping, temp guage you name it, two years on mine going strong (ive used it to charge my 1/1 car a few times!)
right there your saving a bundle of money, and will work just fine unless you become a hardcore racer.
1/8 buggies or truggies are your best bet, powerfull, durable and race ready, im a huge fan of OFNA, HIGH quality products for low cost, then i would say mugen for something a little less bash more race.
dont expect wheelies on both, but do expect stable driving, great acceleration and stable jumping.