When I first started this hobby, I was like you, and I thought that I would get one good plane and I would be set for life. Wrong!!! Unfortunatley, or Fortunately I guess I am now hopelesly addicted I would start with a trainer plane like an LT-40 (which can be found in the links above) and then later moving up to more advanced planes. With so many different models out there you will find yourself always wanting more.
As far as learning to fly, I think that you should learn fairly quickly because you have rc car experience. You probably won't have troubles with the reversed controls when coming towards yourself, and your reflexes are probably pretty quick. But you still need to get with an instructor because he will be able to teach you more than you will ever need to know. Learning with an instructor is also is the method of training with the highest success rate.

Good Luck and have Fun!,

LT-40