The HPI Sprint 2 Flux is a durable car. I've seen one race locally in VTA (with different speed control/motor) and that car took beating and still ran fine. If you buy the 66 Mustang or 67 Corvette, they will come with the HPI Vintage tires. Those tires will work fine on concrete such as driveways and sidewalks. On unprepared asphalt the HPI Vintage tires might slide a bit until broken in.
If you are looking for a shaft drive car with sealed gearboxes, Team Associated still makes the RTR TC4 listing on Tower Hobbies for under $250.(
http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...?&I=LXMGP9&P=7). The TC4 is a little less durable than the Sprint 2, but is a little easier to setup as a racer for a class like VTA>
If you are looking for a pure basher, you might also consider a RTR Tamiya TT-01. Those cars are fairly durable and have a totally sealed gearbox drive train.