in my time, i have had loads of RC cars ranging from and F1 car that would only run on a VERY flat surface, to my now love, the Traxxas Revo 3.3.
the revo is awesome!! it is so much fun and almost indestructible, i have smashed it into a lamppost and no damage at all. it is by far the best RC car i have owned, easy to maintain, easy to start and most of all easy to push to the limits!! i reckon it would do about 40mph and would jump about 4-6 meters in the air (off a jump) and lamd with no damage.
it has a 2 speed GB and the sound of it changing is really cool. i think they go for about 350 (with a starter pack)
would i would suggest is a look around for you local model shop (avoid modelzone, unless u have to) as this will be good to pick up spares/fuel and "hop-ups".
as said it is now quite difficult to pick up a build yourself kit nowadays as they all come RTR.
this is a good place to start. all of the cars here are top quality
http://www.mickcharlesmodels.co.uk/pdf/ ... eaflet.PDF
Sparky