Welcome and tis a good thing you have already stated you want a Heng Long for economic purposes. This will avoid much needless debate off the bat.

Do some searching on here and you will find all kinds of thoughts and opinions on the various Heng Long tanks. To be sure, make SURE it is one of the Smoke and Sound versions (S&S) in that they are much better than the earlier ones that are still found on ebay and other places.

I purchased my HL Tiger I from Raidentech here in the states for $67 shipped and mine works fine still 2 months or so later. I have been one of the lucky ones, or so I have been told. Some have had problems but as mentioned before, the newer S&S versions are much better built. Many get theirs from Mata toys and go for the all metal gearbox versions with metal tracks etc.. Based on what I have read, I'm not exactly sold on the idea that the metal version is so much better that it justifes the price difference. If I were you I would see who sells the S&S version in the UK for the best price and has a decent reputation. You might see what Raidentech can do for you with shipping - provided they have them in stock.

I think the Tiger is a fine raw modeling project for the money involved. Many have done all kinds of upgrades and have relocated a few details that are inaccurate for the discerning eye. I personally have not done this - opting for just painting and weathering the tank as is. There is also a German Heng long site in English that is worth looking into - someone will post it here for you - don't have it handy at the moment. I plane to get the Pershing next - the Walker is nice as well if a tad on the big side compared to its 1/16 brethren in this line.

Good luck and like the name and avatar. Enclosed is my one tank I own for purposes of giving you and idea before you do you search.