It is still very competitive, especially when it goes to rally, I won several competitions in Poland with my G+. Since then there are only more of them around here
About battery place- it is the biggest place for any battery type I know, I use 2s2p LiFe/a123, LiIon and lipos, no problem - they fit perfect (and with a123 you have perfect balance), you have to only shave 2 small points and loosen screws of battery strip.