Modern Nitro classes are so much better than they used to be, it's hardly suprising that Nitro has taken off in such a big way across the board, in many different classes.
When EP 1/10th 4wd buggy was the most popular class in the UK, no one could possibly imagine how different things would become 10 years down the line. Touring cars changed everything.
RTR Nitro would have seemed like a joke back then - only pro's ran Nitro powered cars and even then, they had problems keeping them running for a full race.
Now in the UK, 1/8th Buggy is by far the most popular off road class. Performance per £ (or per $) has had alot to do with why this turn around has occured - there's simply no contest IMHO.
If you're torn between choosing electric or nitro, think carefully. Both forms of racing can be enormously satisfying, but Nitro certainly adds elements to the sport that electric simply cannot.
Regards
Horatio