If Im not mistaken, the Rustler has a planetary diff. While it is practically bullet proof, a ball diff offers better performance. It will need more maintenance. A couple years ago my track had a guy running one. He did pretty good with it. He isn't racing as often now, family obligations Im sure. But, he has since switched to a GT2. Bottom line, it will be very good and durable to learn with. But after a while, you're competitve side will likely get the better of you and you'll want a more race oriented chassis.