From experience having a Slash & Associated SC trucks, Slash is a good bang for your buck definitely& about the only Traxxas vehicle I would recommend! Also don't rule out the HPI Blitz, it may be just a little over your price cap but is well worth it! I think the SC10RS is the better of the 2, w/the Reedy 3300kv motor & lipo ready ESC is great! The SC10 is not only better on the track than the Slash but is also a good basher in its own right, very durable so if you wanna have some backyard fun & then get serious & track it you know it will take whatever you throw at it. With the Slash I had to put some extra suspension parts (sway bar kit, bigger shocks) & tires to handle better, and still it wasn't all that great. Good luck w/your choice bro & take your time choosing, you wanna be truly happy w/whatever you choose.