I say that because as redbull pointed out by the time you get the quality parts to upgrade the bargin buy-in CRC kit you'll spend at or more what the AE costs. Yes you could do without the upgrades but I'm not a big fan of plastic parts, mabey thats just me. I have seen the TOP 1/12 but have'nt driven one, looks a nice bit but in reality all the 1/12 kits on the market can win with the right set-up and driver, thats why I said it really comes down to what looks good to you.