I have heard that the Evader is a good newbmobile. It is a good layout, durable, and has enough options to make it competitive.
I have an Associated RC10GT, and I have to recommend it as well, for the same reasons.
To get back into it, I think you would do well to get something 'tried-n-true', with fewer gadgets and hoo-haa's to get in the way of simple fun and high velocity destruction.
As far as teaching the youngsters, simple is going to pay off in the beginning, there too.
If you have a lhs nearby, check out what models they stock the most parts for, and take that into consideration. You don't wanna have to wait a week to get something as simple as a C-hub, or a shock tower.
If you have a track,or popular bashing spot near by, check that out as well. If you make some new friends, you might get to test drive some different rigs...I know my controller usually has more fingerprints on it than CSI could separate...(Throttle EPA knob is my best-est friend)