Don't forget about the Diff upgrades which is $300, driveline upgrade which is $100+, Tranny upgrade which is $100+, BL motors which is $700+, new chassis to handle power $150, and list goes on and on. He said below $450.
Savage seems like the best bang for buck because it can take a beating (Like that vid of the guy jumping the Savage on concrete 10+ ft and not breaking even after a couple spills), with a driveline that can handle even to the power of a RB Concept C5s. Maybe add some HD dogbones and a new clutch, aftermarket which is slowly growing, and not the same 'ole flat chassis T-Maxx look-a-like.
Note: This isn't mine.