I would suggest a Tamiya TT02 with a cheap radio setup for new racers and mah limit on a lipo... try to get drivers in for under $300... maybe 350 with a decent charger. Maybe go so far as restrict it to original parts only, except for maybe those who want to use a different radio.
https://www.tamiyausa.com/items/radi...-gt3-amg-58566