well I honestly can't say- I have a Mini Cooper w/7700 MambaMax and it is powered w/2s LiPo so going off-road will be a first. The input I am getting is to remove the Traxxas connector and soldering a Deans. I think any brushless is gonna cost the bucks; I'm looking at about $350 for the Stampede and a bit more for the Rustler. also think you can upgrade a stocker w/VXL.