I got a 22D a few months ago for $136.00 (shipped) and I just saw them at another site for $98.00 + shipping so yes you did pay too much. I never tried the sim so I can't help you there. So far I have no complaints about the heli. It flies great and has not broke anything yet even after several crashes. I chose it for the same reason, no tail motor to burn out and I'm very happy with mine. I don't see how the 22e could be a newer version though since it's a cp and the 22D is a fp?