If you want it, get it. The concensus is to start with an electric for first timers but I say why bother buying something you don't want. If you start with something you will quickly outgrow, your stuck with it when you want to move on and trying to sell a used rc is like trying to dump enron stock. Oh, and when you switch to nitro, you still have to learn about tuning and everything else. I bought the jato 2.5 when they first came out and up untill then only had electric cars. The jato is a great 1st st in my opinion because it is pretty tough and it teaches you about tuning and maintenance and repair. As far as people saying you can't handle it, prove them wrong. It really is not hard to drive any rc car with some practice and thats what the break in period is for. If it proves to be to fast at first, then don't go wide open. If you can't tell, I'm saying jump in! Have fun and drive it like you stole it!!!