And I agree with you on the TC30. It is up there in price though.
My current "1st choice" is a standard BJ4 with the stick chassis. I can't really think of a way that having the mid motor would make THAT big of a difference considering any advantage it would have will be lost in my lack of consistency as a driver (which I admit to). I'd like to spend less on a car than what the BJ4 costs BUT I'd have to spend more in the long run to go with the B44.
The Kyosho is also a thought and I admit the Academy intrigues me but having never driven either I am not sure. I have driven a BJ4 with lipo stick and loved it.
And I just don't see how not wanting to buy MORE lipos is silly. You yourself said not many are needed so why would I add to the pile of stuff?