No real experience to offer, but I have a HPI Vorza. Sure it is an RTR, but it comes with the same electronics many end up putting in anyways. The battery tray is very adjustable and can hold just about any battery no problem. The aluminum chassis is strong, not like the Ve8, and you basically are getting a D8 since almost every part is the same. I'm guessing it is a tad heavier than some of the other options, but not by much, and it seems practically indestructable in my hands.

Only thing I've done to mine is add an aluminum servo horn and some skid plates. The stock radio is junk, but I'm sure you planned to use something else anyways.

ben