honestly not getting the 3.3 out the gate would be a lil backwards its always better to have more and be able to use it later then to have less and need it. say hes learns quick and does a lil research in the process now he opted for the smaller motor and has to upgrade when all he has to do is get the 3.3 and follow the instructions on how to break in and tune the motor and when he figures it out he will realize that he can lean the motor shim the motor and get more out of it. but either way the truck is almost bullet proof and so are the motors hes gotta do what he can afford and if your gonna go go fast. buy cheap buy twice.i learned that the hard way.he will come to realize this is one of those things that really comes down to you get what you pay for!