Just starting out in this RC World, been looking into getting a ST and have heard many wonders about the HPI line-up. I'm not big into racing but just want to have fun with it. Been hung up on whether to get the Firestorm or the MT2. Been reading through the forum and seems like they are two really good trucks. Seems to me liek the only difference between the two is 2wd and 4wd. What would be better for someone just starting out?

2 wheel drive is going to be more challenging to drive due to the less traction you will have vs 4 wheel drive. 4 wheel drive will generally grip better on all surfaces and be easier to control. Light weight 2 wheel drive trucks are more about getting the right tires for the right surface to give you better grip and learning throttle control. Really boils down to what you think you will enjoy most.

2wd is so much more fun! 4wd is a little boring in comparison to the twitchy and hard to control 2wd, just trying to learn and master 2wd is fun

I just got a firestorm and i love it. This is also my first real "Rc Car" it is a blast to drive, i already broke a few things but it didnt take that long to fix and it was a good thing for me to learn...seems how this is my first rc car. I agree with Mspeed, i bet 2wd is more challenging but i know it will pay out in the end to get better at controling rc cars.....

The HPI line-up is a total bash-worthy line of trucks.I have the Firestorm and have yet to break a part worth above 10$,and as my sig says,these trucks also have Xtreme power!You don't have to take my word for it though,grab yourself a firestorm and start mowing the lawn!![8D]

I just bought an MT2 18+ss or however it goes lol

i have a mt2 and love it. my freind has the firestorm. if your going on a track and your a beginner the mt2 will be alot eayser to get used to. the firestorm is great to. cant go wrong with anyof those

well thanks alot guys. I think i'm gonna go with the Firestorm. like fupuk said it might help to learn on a 2wd exactly how to drive it. Can't wait to get it!

Do you guys recommend any places to get good parts? or tires?

Also, is there anything I need to be aware of before starting this thing up? like manufacturing defects or anything liek that?

Great choice!The Firestorm has always been my favorite of all two wheel drive STs.
Not that I know of.Just do what the manual says and you should be just fine.