The HL line as well as all other RC tank brands are far faster than scale. Like the Sargent said you will need to use some type of gear reduction to get them down to a scale speed..As far as the office goes, these tanks generally don't like carpet as it can snag in the tracks and cause problems. They act like real tanks, so they work best on that type off terrain. And as far as the metal up grades, you wont need them for the use you intend. It is money you don't need to spend. Most of the guys I just competed against at Danville use stock plastic tracks.