probably not cheaper in the long run but so worth it. There is a reason that almost all 1/8th tracks are dominated by the revo. You will almost never see a t-maxx or e-maxx on the race track in most cases. Don't get me wrong, i like the e-maxx, and sure you can get it to handle better than a revo with some serious $$$$, but it is made to primarily bash. The maxx series has two times the after market support than the revo, so if you like to customize then go for the maxx. If you like to race/bash get the revo.