Tamiya Hilux or Axial SCX-10?

[RusT808]

Hi everyone, I'm new to this forum and in a way new to r/c. My first r/c was a Tamiya Hotshot I bought back in the mid 80's and last one was an RC10T when they first came out. The hobby sure has progressed by leaps and bounds!
I really like how you can make very realistic trucks, (BITD I always wanted a Bruiser but never saved enough for it), and the after market parts available for upgrades.
My questions are:
Which of these trucks would be good to start with?
Does the Tamiya have easy access to upgraded parts? I seen a lot of stuff for Axial.
Are there any other brands with a "box" looking frame?
I like the leaf spring look, can this be added to the Axial frame easily, no brazing?
Is leaf springs going backwards and sacrificing a lot of performance/fun?
I'm not looking to compete, just want to have fun.

Thanks, Russ