The more I see this question, the more I realize that there are many great cars to choose from and everyone has a different opinion. A while back I would've told you you'd be crazy to start off with something like an X-Ray. Way to much car for a newbie. But now...with the economy the way it is and people selling off stuff for such great prices...Buy what you can get for the best price and grow into the car.
Xray, Associated, Losi, Top, 3 Racing, Team Magic ....They're all good in one way or another and NONE of them are perfect.
Many, many, many other posts like this have always suggested the same thing. Buy whats good for the type of class you'll be running and it's always good to buy whats most easily supported locally. If you don't mind the problems in having to buy parts online....then it's all wide open. Good Luck and HAVE FUN !!!