RE: Born-again beginner car?
First of all, I own a Nitro Evader, and you do not want a nitro evader. I will argue this to my deathbed with any current Nitro Evader owner; there are countless better trucks out there for the price.
If you want to get into racing, you'll want to stay out of 1/10 scale buggy, just because that segment is basically empty. Also steer clear from 2wd Stadium Trucks; those are a dying breed. I would lean towards your 1/8 scale Buggy, Truggy, or any scale Monster Truck (if you want to Bash).
Current deals are the Duratrax Raze ST and Raze Buggy; both on sale for $199.99. The Raze series has a very strong reputation both for durability and performance. You'll want to eventually ditch the engine that comes with it, but it's a good starting point.
For your Monster Truck class, you can get yourself a an Associated Mini MGT for about $250. Good little 4wd basher.