I just got back into this hobby and picked up the 2wd ECX Ruckus Brushless version for $279. I did read that it was for beginners but to me this thing holds up just fine. I have upgraded mine just s little bit with aluminum parts and new servo and a lipo battery. Here is a video of my Ruckus pulling a brushless 2wd Stampede

https://youtu.be/f5YDbEdrzZU

I have more videos of my Ruckus and I think it holds up just fine against other brands