Hmm....I'd suggest to start off with the original ZipZaps (not an SE), and play with it a while, and for mods, visit the Bit Science section and see what you can do. The dual/tri cell mod comes in handy, and mosfets as well. Then you may want to move on to the SE's, and trust me, they are fun. When you install a quad cell, these things can't be beaten, except for the fact that they are so **** heavy and like to flip over.
Also, the MicroSizers/Bit Char-g's are fun to mod. You can do a dual cell on them, a Laymans tricell fits nicely in them, and they have nice tires, bodies(well, for their size), and cool upgrades. When you throw in a 2.6/3.8 motor, K.I.T. racer(also known as B.I.T. racer in other areas) gears, and the Layman's Tricell, they are uncontrollable beasts
Micro RC's are just as fun as hell to play with. You can start off with the MicroSizers for more of that "sporty" look, or ZipZaps for a "Story" look.
Don't take my word for it.....I'm cheap!
Chuckster...