RE: help me choose a nitro for $400
Having just read the OP's post again, if you want an SC nitro, Associated SC8 all the way!! Very durable, great handling, and fast(get a 17T clutch-bell..)
It's a very high-quality RC based off their race buggy and truggy..
SC's suck for jumping though - just so you know...
If you want a truggy, more for messing around and not serious racing and a huge budget, take a look at the Losi 8T 2.0 RTR.. Great complete package to get started... AND, you have the option of running on some real race tracks if you ever want to...
For an all-out package, something like this:
1.) Mugen MBX6T or Associated RC8T CE (or Losi, or Hot Bodies D8T, or whatever floats your boat...)
2.) 2x Hitec 7955 servos
3.) OS 25XZ engine and matching pipe..(not sure there..)
4.) Starterbox, radio, tires, etc...
More of a race package though...
The Losi XXL is a great, very fast, and huge MT with top quality, good handling(for an MT), and great components right off the bat - Spektrum radio with telemetry, good reliable powerful engine, etc...
All a question of what floats your boat more and what you really intend to be doing with it - MT, truggy, buggy, SC8.... All good for different reasons.... But all good.