My pocketbook will attest to the fact that the hop-up availability for the NTC3 is limited only by money.

If you went with the RTR NTC3, I would suggest a two-speed transmission immediately, followed by any hop-up that improves handling (blade, shocks, one-way, etc.) when you can afford it. If you're going to race, or be on a track with barriers, spend some money on "the fix" for the diff case. The stock motor and two-speed will give you mucho speed for a beginner.