very interested in getting an 1/8 scale nitro car. got to see a few in action today at the track, and i'm sold. however i want to do proper research before i buy my next kit. i cant afford a 500$ mistake lol.

seems like ofna has some amazing 1/8 scale chassis, such as the new X3 GT or the DM1

the WR8 3.0 by HPI looks like an awesome machine as well, considering it would be suitable for dirt also.

my needs:
-not majorly competitive
-easy to work on, maintain, clean
-easy to get parts for (i dont want to wait on parts to ship from japan)
-400-500$ to spend, im hoping you guys can help me spend wisely

thanks for all input!