Here's the deal. I'm new to the RC world and so I'm not too sure what's what. I want something pretty quick but inexpensive. My budget is $100 - $120 but will go a bit higher $200 if I get a great deal. Also, I'm not going to be racing at all, it's just to have fun. Electric is fine as well as Nitro (which I know cost more) but they must be RTR. The first car I've seen is this [link=http://www.ehobbies.com/rc-hpi-954.html]HPI Dash M3[/link] car. This [link=http://www.ehobbies.com/rc-cen-9102.html]CEN Mercedes[/link] is more expensive but it seems like a better car. This [link=http://www.hobbytron.net/HPI-Sprint-Porsche-911.html]HPI Porsche[/link] also looks good but I'm not too sure.

Again, I'm new to RC's and don't know much. Any information on these cars would be great. Are they worth the price? Are they good cars? How are the companies? If these cars "suck" what would be good for my budget? Any info would be great. Thanks.

I'd steer clear of the dash. It is not very quick out of the box and is extremely limited (almost nothing) on what can be done to improve it. I'd recommend the HPI sprint (your link for the HPI porsche is an HPI sprint). It's a much more capable vehicle with a tonne of potential for future speed and handling improvements.

If your any interested in off road then i would look into a traxxas electric stampede. My Friend had one and it was extremely fun. It's basically a traxxas rustler or a stadium truck with a lift kit. I think i costs about 130 RTR plus a charger. Check it out [link=http://www.traxxas.com/products/electric/stampede/trx_stampede.htm]Stampede[/link]
If the link doesn't work then its at www.traxxas.com

The Doc.
P.S. There are two different versions. one with a ESC and one with a mechanical speed controller. If you can afford it get the one with the esc.

heres the car i got started with.

[link=http://www.hobbysuperstore.com/inside/store/product.php?id=381&cat=29]rustleresc[/link]

wicked

What is the difference between a HPI and a HPI Sprint? Also, what abou the CEN Mercedes (it's also available with a Porsche body)? I'm not looking for anything off-road, I like the sleekness and the attractiveness of sports cars.

BTW, are HPI and CEN reputable companies?

Dont say HPI Porsche.. The "Porsche" part just refers to the plastic body style and youcan get ANY 200mm body and stick it on the car. That is.. unless porsche makes custom engines for HPI

I understand your need for an onroad car.. but if you wanna bash around I'd seriously consider a stadium truck or a Monster Truck..
Yes theyre more expensive but I say theyre worth it..

I mean come on.. everyone knows a 12 pound truck that can do 40 Mph is more "manly" than a wimpy 3 pound car scurrying around like a roach on speed!!
Ok maybe thats subjective..

All I'm saying is take your time and spend your money wisely!!! DO NO RUSH into a purchase thinking its a good deal.. Its all too easy to buy junk thinking it was a good deal

I Bought the HPI RS4 SS.. it was a blast and the engine was easy to tune.. and it came with a 2 speed.. Not sure how much I paid for it though.. was less than 200. Only thing.. you need electronics.. you can pick up an AM radio for 75 bucks with servos.
Err.. Thats 275.... Now you see the problem with this hobby..lol

Students need not apply?!!

ram

Whatever you buy.. have fun with it

the traxxas 4-tec is a good choice.i dont know how much it is for you cause im in canada but i know its cheap,upgradable,and can be quite fast.

Instead of buying a new car you should look at some used vehicles. Since you want ready to run anyway everthing used will be complete. I see lots of good deals on e-bay and there are also lots of vehicles for sale on here.

Yes.. true.. taking advantage of the bad resale value is one thing..

BUT...
Sometimes its possible to buy a lemon.. or.. a onece-good-now-lemon.

I personally wouldnt send a noob the e-bay route.. As long as your receive the product... E-bay or paypal will NOT help you.(I speak from experience.. I was screwed for over $1500 on Computer parts.. I didnt receive ANYTHING and I still got jipped)

And the other party can always say "This guy is a noob and he doesnt know how to tune the engine".
And thats that.. your screwed.
I think 50-100 bucks is worth the peace of mind for a noob.

ram