Which Buggy would you guys recommend? Also what would be a good engine for either? I do plan on racing so .21 would be automatic.

I still don't understand what makes a MBX5R almost double the price of a Hyper 8 RTR could someone explain?

firstly dont get the hyper8 rtr. get the hyoer8 kit version.

good engine for starters would be a OS vspec.

I believe the Mugen is the slightly better machine, but must confess to not having seen a Hyper 8 in the flesh yet (very few OFNA/HoBao here in greece). In any case, as is always said, any of the top buggies will allow you to go fast, it's up to you to drive them fast, the Hyper 8 is a solid and high performing buggy. Go with which ever has better parts support in your area/favorite online retailers.