I run the $28 trackstar motors in my offroad cars and now my 1/12 as well. I don't see a lack of performance in them and they fit my budget so I can have spares. I've got a 6.5 in my offroad truck that's probably got 1000 laps or better on it this summer on dusty tracks, and is getting it's second set of bearings this week. I keep track of most my laps with a timer and spreadsheet in offroad, so not just guessing.

**edit**
I see you said the "hot" motors That likely won't be what I described above. I mis-read and thought you were looking for a budget motor. I would guess most the big name motors will come with the big price as you described.