RE: What was your first engine?
My first glow engine was a Cox .049 that came on a plastic P-39.
My first RC engine was a Fox 40BB Deluxe. I learned a considerable amount about what does and does not matter to me when it comes to engines from that experience. I've still got it sitting in a box here somewhere. If I ever have a lot of time on my hands and feel like playing with needle valves I'll dig it out.