I went through this a year ago - RC8.2, or Mugen MBX6R.. My case is a bit special, because I already had so many Associated parts on hand, so I chose the Associated. In retrospect - focussing purely on the two buggies - it was a mistake. I completely disagree with Zerodefekt about part quality - Associated is up there with anybody. BUT.... If you read the RC8.2 thread, it's true - all they talk about is a million and one mods you have to make to calm down the rear end. So it's a geometry issue with the RC8.2, not a quality one. It's a neverending story. Quality is excellent - but be prepared to order a bunch of other c.rap, drill holes in shock towers, etc..
I'd rather have a Mugen and plop it on the track than try to keep up with all the nit-picky little mods people go on about with the RC8.2.. Their truggy btw is awesome and still competitive.
As far as engines, look at the 21 offroad engine section at Amain and take your pick.. I've heard good things about the Reedy, but I for ex. would rather have the new Picco 5TR, or an Alpha A852(even cheaper..), or a Werks B6 or something.. There are 25+ good engine choices out there, including the Reedy...
The ACE servos are good..
ps All that said about the AE, it also depends - how seriously and competitely do you plan to race? The AE is probably just fine out of the box for a beginner.. I personally find it annoying to check in to a thread about a car I run and all people talk about is the umpteen bazillion miniscule shock mods they've been doing for ex.. But on the other hand, most of that is just useless "keeping up with the Ryans" anyway, and probably doesn't have that much effect.. A guy on a German forum has told me the main thing you need to do is just drill the "zero hole" in the rear shock tower, and that makes the biggest difference.. If you go into the RC8.2 thread though and ask, it will quickly become a labyrinth.. So yeah - just keep in mind - there's a lot of BS to sift through, but depending on your level of experience and ambition, the RC8.2 might be just the ticket for you.. I personally wish I'd gotten a Mugen though..
Last edited by Herrsavage; 11-13-2012 at 09:06 AM.