Since you are a newbie, just go with electric. And if you may race sometimes, or even if you are just bashing around, I think the Team Associated TC3 is a great start. If you just want a cheap car, but still has some performance, the Traxxas 4-tec is a good place to start. BTW, electric cars can last as long as nitro cars, with the new technology in batteries. What second-hand car will you buy...i wouldnt think its a really good idea to do that. If you want more information, just PM me.