It really all depends on what you want to spend and how much he's already into R/C. Electric is by far the better choice if you don't know that he's already into nitro cars.

I can't really recommend a car unless I know what your budget is, but the body is below. It'a 190mm so it should fit most electric touring cars.

1997 Honda Accord
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...?&I=LXN214&P=7