i bought my first rc when i was 13 and it was a 1st gen t maxx. i did destroy my 1st engine. i may ran a gallon through it and then sat in the garage until a year ago( was 20). i love it now but know about nitro better too. buy used ffor your 1st rc so if you lose interest you aint out much money. also buy electric, its easy to mantain. this is just my .02$> STICK WITH THIS RC SITE. it contains great info