Remember that although you may purchase a reasonably priced car in order to stay within your budget, the cost of additional materials such as fuel, battery packs, etc. will add up quickly. If you plan to enter your vehicle in the competitive racing realm, some races will require an entrance fee.
As you plan your budget in preparation of buying your first RC car, you can expect to spend at least $200 for a single vehicle; with surplus materials, an average of $400 is typical for a complete setup. Keep in mind that not all RC manufacturers are created equal. Some companies produce cheaper models that are easily damaged, so make sure that you purchase an RC from a reputable vendor.