I run a 17.5 with the basic esc without timing boost option. Speed is not everything.
The trick is driving skills, traffic etc.

In nitro there are two classes buggy and truggy-no matter what motor.
Makes the hobby much easier.

The turn out creates classes and quality of racing.

Just my 2cents.. I'll run mod if a class opens.

I run sct because it is less expensive..
$190 motor/esc, 3200 25c or 5000 30c under $50, truck $200