Well I just ran across this site, and it seems you al have a lot of good experience and knowledge. I don't know much about RC cars so please dont bash the newbie. My gf is supposed to get me an RC car for xmas, but she wants an idea of what I want. She started working at an RC store a few weeks ago, but she's still learning. I'm sure I could talk to some of the people she works with, but they would be mostly trying to sell a product to make money, not to satisfy my needs. Also, the more opinions the better. I've read some posts on here and looked around on the net and here is what I'm looking for:

Defiantely want Nitro. I've also seen some listed as "gas", separate from nitro, but I've only seen a few. Are they the same or do some actually use gasoline? I wanted a street/touring car for the last 4 years, but I've decided that I want something that can go anywhere, so I think I want a Monster truck. I don't like like the buggies. I also want a Ford 350 or similar body for it, so I want something that will allow me to buy different bodies. I also want something that will be easy to find parts for if I decide to upgrade. I can do most repair work and maintenance myself, since I spend 98% of my free time working on my custom ford explorer (though they are completely different scale), so that's not much of an issue. I think I want a RTR, since they are cheaper right? I wouldn't mind a kit but then I have to buy radios and engines separate, which gets into big money. I do want something somewhat fast, I don't know how fast they are out-of-the-box, but maybe 30mph+? We are both in bad times financially right now, but she insists on getting me one. Im looking for something around $300, though she wants to try to spend a little more. Any extra money could always go towards tires, gas etc if she wants. What are some good suggestions for a first RC within those guidelines?

Also a couple more questions. When Im looking for an engine if/when I decide to upgrade, what do I look for? I read the post about how hp and torque ratings are not accurate, but what if dyno charts are not available? Is it all about price then? And as far as performance, can you mod these little engines as you can a V6 or V8? What about intake and exhaust? Do they need a certain amount of backpressure like car engines or can I just run it with no muffler for more power? Thanks for your help......Mike