I have an Associated Nitro TC3 RTR. It seems to be more durable than HPI's. I'd say either one would be good. Gas > electric. Electric only last 4-6 mins, then you have to recharge for 20 mins+. It's also not good to recharge the batteries more than 2 times in one day. Gas allows you to run longer, go faster, but you have to take a break every so often so it has time to cool off.