Nothing wrong with my Exceed or the Mini-T. I beat the hell out of both and everythings been good so far. I can't complain. An my cheap as$ Exceed only cosy me $133 shipped. I know where you guys are coming from though. They're ALOT of other brands out there that would benefit this kid better than Traxxas. I was just simply saying that Traxxas wasn't all that bad. I've also owned a Associated Nitro TC3 and a Losi LST2, both were great cars/trucks. Through RCU I've traded a lot and have had the chance to try my hand at a couple different brands. But the HPI Firestorm was a nice suggestion for him. I was looking at that one myself no too long ago. It is what it is guys, to each his own. Have fun, be safe.