For one, a little more research helps.....Tamiya does not make the R1, it is Spec R. Tamiya don't really do anodized red for their team cars too and worth about double that price.
I would get the Spec R. I think the Associated is among the lowest build quality of all the top end tourers out there.
Thanks for the info Dan. I found this:
http://www.tqrcracing.com/shop/produ...pg_no=&bbs_no=
It says Spec R R1 and the pic shows red anodization. Is this something aftermarket thats being done to it?