The TC3 really isnt all that "Cheapy" The only "Cheap"part of the whole car is the Radio. If it was me, i would throw the LRP Runner into a Traxxas Rustler, or sell it to someone who has a rustler.

Take the radio and use it only to get basic "car controls" learned down pat ( many people have problems starting out, when the car comes at them they turn the wrong way, ect... Its normal!! ) then get nicer radio like a Futaba Jr, or JR XR2.