Which would you go with for a first nitro buggy? I've wanted a Violator for a couple of years but the Turmoil seems to get better reviews and comes with a spectrum radio system which I've wanted for a while too. The difference in price is negligible considering that if I got the Violator I'd add a dss radio anyways. I have a T-maxx as well so nitro isn't something new to me. Mainly looking at durability, reliability, possible upgrades if need be. Will be mostly for zippin around a local BMX track and not any serious competition.

Decided to get the Turmoil. Pretty much because it came with the better radio. It's not gonna get to my door till after the new year but then again neither will I.

The Turmoil is a good deal, for bashers. If you're interested in racing at all, the 8ight is just as good a deal.

If you are only bashing, then either of the two you just mentioned are fine.

However, if you ever plan on racing it, don't bother with either of the two you mentioned.

Check out the Hyper 8.5 Pro (Most competitive and best bang for you buck).

Losi is great as well (Maybe hard for a newbie to wheel, though)

The RC8 is getting the bugs worked out, and seems to be a great buggy as well.

You are lucky, there are so many good choices out in the market today.

If you plan on racing it, do not by an RTR. You will wind up spending a lot more money on it - more than you ever thought/anticipated. Just get the Pro kit, and quality electronics, servos (The Futaba 3PM FASST system is an excellent radio for the money - best bang for you buck). Get digital servos - Check out ACE, Hyperion, Hitec, Futaba, Etc...

Check out a Go-Tech or Picco Evo 2 engine with Dynamite Pipe... Cheap, durable, powerful...

Good luck!