RE: Stampede XL-5 verses VXL
Since he already flies planes I seriously doubt he'll have to limit the throttle to 50% on either one. With that said you'll have just as much fun with the XL5 as you will with the VXL in stock form. Don't get me wrong I'm not trying to sell you on not getting the VXL but the reality is that it costs $170 more and does the same speed in stock trim. Sure people will say to get the VXL because you can upgrade as time goes on to up the speed (with lipo batteries) but the same could be said for the XL5. Put a lipo and tall gearing on any truck, including the XL5, and it'll go pretty fast and for the $170 you saved you could get that lipo pack TODAY.
The VXL does have certain upgrades that you may want to consider, but that is up to you to decide whether they're worth it for you.