I would go with the RC8.2. I had a Hyper 7 and it was a durable buggy, but it is old now. A motor mount is also $40 tops for a one time purchase. I wouldn't base buying a buggy one way or another off of that. I would pick the RC8.2 based on its parts support and track record. Plus, it sounds like you already have experience with the RC8 series.