The HPI is probably the best bashing car. The Kyosho cars were aimed for racing(plus they are super expensive anyway. Tamiya's TG10 isn't all that great because Tamiya has little nitro experience which sets them back in the TG10's performance, its nothing compared to their electric stuff. HPI is the best in my mind. It's at a competitive price, user-friendly, & can still be raced.
Engine-wise, OS is excellent for nitro newbies. Very easy to tune & get going. Plenty powerful too.