This forum is not for toy RC cars, but we can help you put something together that is modern that is like the toy he got long ago. I'd start here...
Body (thinking this is like what he had?);
http://www.gravesrc.com/par10152-par...ody-200mm.html
RC Car. Now I don't normally choose Redcat, but just for fun like this, it is a good option for you.
https://www.rcplanet.com/redcat-ligh...FYEZgQodpuECow
Tires/Wheels (to make it a non-drift vehicle);
http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/3717934...&ul_noapp=true
Battery Adapter for both charging and running;
https://www.rcplanet.com/Redcat_Raci...FVE9gQodXfUAwg
Battery;
https://www.atomikrc.com/collections...ase-w-uni-plug
Charger;
https://www.amazon.com/Venom-LiPo-Sp.../dp/B00T05IBK2
Now you will need to paint the body, but that is easy. Get some Tamiya RC spray paint in the white color he likes, and paint it like you would anything else.