With the radio only being 15 years old it certainly should be narrow banded and gold stickered. New batteries are a good idea, in fact I would just go ahead and replace them.

I agree Agexpert, get with a local club and see what the instructors there recommend. Stay away from Warbirds for a while, get competent. However, the Hanger 9 PTS P-51 is suppose to be a great basic trainer.