RE: NEWBIE HELP - Which model to choose?
Bigger is bigger, that simply can't be argued. It's got a bigger wing, bigger engine and a longer fuselage. It's also heavier and flies more stable and is easier to see. The Hobbistar also doesn't come with a bucket of useless gadgets that you can waste money on. It also is easier to fly because it has less dihedral and rolls better and generally responds better.
I've flown both and instructed using both. Students have seemed to prefer the Hobbistar as do I. I found landings more predictable/controlable with the Hobbistar.