My first 1/8th scale ebuggy was a converted Hyper 7 as well. In terms of durability, you can't go wrong with it. It truly is one of the most durable 8th scales ever made, especially if you have the PBS version suspension. I ran mine until I couldn't compete any more with it and then upgraded to an RC8Be. Honestly for a basher, I wish I still had it. For racing though, it will only take you so far.

I think your best plan is to convert and run it for a while. Get used to 8th ebuggy and then when your diving skill on the track catches up to it, upgrade to a true racing 8th scale. Then keep the Hyper just to have fun with.