I picked up the S15 from a local rc dealer here in Brisbane for just under $600AU. That came complete with everything to get it going. I've since got it the bigger pod filter, discs, exhaust and stuff like that. HPI makes a few of their kits 'R2R' (ready to race), so they come pre-built and have the receiver and everything you need already (except the fuel+servo batteries of course).

Other kits (like that monster truck one) come dissembled so first you gotta build them and it also means you gotta buy the servos and radio controllers etc separately so that can generally set you back an extra $100 straight up.. but at least the building part of it is fun though.

Electric drift RC's work just as well. They might not be as fast, or noisy, and they don't have the nitro smell and smoke but they're still heaps of fun and cheaper. I've seen an electric R35 GTR (Tamiya) RC car. I wanted that one myself imo. Sounds like you're looking for the right brands (stick with HPI or Tamiya). Kyosho ain't too bad either.. but I think they may only make the off-road ones..

two nice "rc'", especially s15
mayby participiating in local rc contests ?

i swear these "hobbie" are just another way of saying "overprice usually miniature fun"
ive spent about 450 just on 1:18 die-cast model cars.

I'm gonna resist temptation (of gettin a RC) and save up for a set of decent rims for the family car instead.

or go have a look on ebay , dammit they look soo cool drifting at high speeds.

One thing I have learned about most leisure activities is that if its got wheels then 99% of the time its gonna be expensive.

Haha it goes back to that old saying: "if its got wheels or boobs then you generally won't be able to afford it". That is so true

There are truly wonderful MK211 model vehicles. I especially love the Nissan Silvia S15.

1.5 hp in somthing smaller than a shoe?
Nice !
I hope to get my own soon , nice cars

fancy making a vid of your silvia in action ???

Sure perhaps over the weekend if i get some time!

Wow man, wow. Hawt shit.