Getting back into fish

Hi all,

I'm finally getting back into cichlids after 15 years. I haven't yet
settled on a tank, I'm thinking something between 55 and 80, or so. I
need a tank no more than 4 feet long. I saw an 80 gallon tank at petco
for $180, is this a good deal? I saw a 55 gallon rig at walmart for
$152, but I think the 80 gallon would be better since I would like to
get top of the line components, not just some thrown together kit. What
would be the difference in capacity for african cichlids between the
two? I don't mean how many you COULD fit in each, but how many you
SHOULD fit in each. I'm talking moderate sized fish that reach maybe 5
or so inches a piece, I'm not up on the scientific names, so cut me some
slack. If anyone could recommend any species in particular I would be
grateful. I just want a nice looking tank of happy, lively, fun to watch
africans. For a filter I'm leaning towards the rena filstar 3, it looks
like a very good filter for the money. Money isn't that big an object,
but I don't want to spend more than needed. Any comments or suggetions
are welcome.

Josh