Building a Flakpanzer - static or RC base model?

[eddscott]

I've wanted to build a tank for years and have decided to make a start. I originally wanted (and may still do so) start off with a JS2.

However, I've always liked the Flakpanzer Gepard so I've been looking around at what is available. There are a couple of old unbuilt kits knocking about, a couple of re-release statics and the odd built resto project. I've discovered a couple of sites that have the various electrical gubbins for the radar etc. I've found the SGS control units although I was wondering if there was an English manual or are the diagrams enough?

Really, I'm wandering where to start. Static Vs RC kit theres anything up to £300 between the two and would that £300 saved on the static be better spent on modern electrics? I guess the RC kit doesn't come with anything other than motorised tracks - i.e. the radar, turrret and gun elevation. If I bought 2nd hand resto project that is more of an unknown exactly how much work is needed to repair/restore - although if it's cosmetic it shouldn't be too hard to put right and if the gearbox etc is in OK condition then it's a good saving over either version of new kit.

Any opinions/advice would be very welcome!