There is so much bad advice here. Let's sort through it for a moment...
If you want to race and only race, get a racecar. However, if you're just jumping in and want to get a feel for it, you can get most any RTR and be more than okay. The Team Associated Apex is a great option as well as the HPI you mentioned. The key is getting something that has a relatively low pricepoint that you can grow into. A newbie shouldn't be buying an Xray or another high priced racecar to start with. Most likely, any tub car should work for what you are looking for. Go to the track you want to run at and see what they carry parts for. Then, decide what you want to do. If I may, I'd also throw Tamiya and their TT-02 into the mix.
Sure, some will critique and criticize RTRs and plastic tub cars for lack of adjustment and weight... HOWEVER, if you're just starting out, you need to learn how to drive and control what you have. I was and have been very happy with my Tamiya TT cars. Would I use them for 17.5 or mod racing? No. Then again, I wouldn't be using anything except for a high end touring car for those classes. Ultimately, you need to decide what you want to accomplish. If you want a low price point to jump into onroad, just buy whatever your local store can get parts for. You need to teach yourself to drive, not spend time making crazy adjustments and destroying a carbon fiber car.
Been in your shoes, done that before, and that's why I write and contribute on RCNewb.com ... to try and help answer questions like this rather than starting a brand or dollar amount flame war. Best of luck to you RevRunner... I'm sure you'll find what you need.