I think you are correct. I have spent many hours searching the web now. Everything is junk.
But I did find one that looks promissing. The Hobbyking Mission D sells for $80 and needs a Radio system another $30 and battery, another $20. It is light duty but performs well from the reviews I have read. It is a clone of the Yokomo DRB that is more expensive and stronger built.
So many Hobby's die off after a short time and spending a lot of money on the first shot may be a waste. If this new Hobby looks like something to persue, then all the better parts from Yokomo DRB are easy upgrades. Brushless motors, aluminum axles and differential all would make a better Drifter but the geometry and performance is there now with the plastic parts. Just don't slam the curb.
Check it out and tell me what you think. There are a ton off videos on this Drifter.
Thanks