dynodan - I think the minis are a lot of fun. We're trying to get a class at our local parking lot races for the rest of the summer. None of us have invested a lot of time or money into our cars. I think these cars are a great for a low budget, sportsman,, whatever you want to call it class. They are reasonable in price and you can find some inexpensive aluminum parts and hop ups on Ebay. This RC Tech thread is excellent. The people who contribute on this thread have great knowledge, and are very enthusiastic.