www.rcmart.com has good deals. www.minizracer.com has parts and ready sets also. Toyeast.com used to have lxx cars for 26 bucks but they don't sell them anymore. If you do get a newer mr-01. Like the impreza or nsx. There are more parts for mr-01 than mr-02 but the mr-02 is the latest chassis. Mr-02 is really good too but a little more 30-50 more than mr-01. Hope this helps.
I am looking at them myself. I like my XMODS car and wanted to try mini-z's as well.
Looks like dinball has a decent selection of ready sets, which is what a beginner should get yes?
I've ordered from them before and it took forever. Local shops are way over priced. Need more ready sets at a good price (w good shipping costs or free)