Where do I start?

[HO502cid]

Well, I managed to pick up a Bit Char-G clone (not a very good one) for $9.99 from a local drugstore. It seems to be an OK vehicle but the body is atrocious and the controller is rather lame. It seems to be a good base for experiments but I would rather start my TinyRC career with a REAL Bit Char-G. I have read through the QFM site and was truly impressed with the amount of modifications available for these little buggers. This is not my first adventure into smaller scale RC (I own three Micro RS4s) but the practicality of these tiny cars is truly intriguing. It seems as if you could just have one of these cars with you at all times and be ready to play at any given moment. What do you guys recommend I start with? I was looking at the Auto Modellista set, the Initial D set, or the Skyline set (I want some options for bodies). The Speed Racer set is also quite high on my list, I mean...look at the body! When are the Mini Coopers supposed to come out? What is the best/cheapest online shop? Where should I purchase 'hop-ups'? What type of mods should I start with? I apologize for asking A LOT of questions, I should say newbie questions but I have quite a bit of catching up to do on these forums and there is no way I can take in all the info you guys have been so kind as to post. I appreciate all your help and hope to be a contributing member to these forums as long as I own an RC car. Thanks in advance for your comments!