The stock savage engine does not reach high rpms, probably due to the motor you put in the T-maxx, plus the large weight difference, it is faster. Are you sure the sav's shifting to second? Mine really gets going once it gets into second gear...I have the stock engine and 18/49 and I'm used to fast cars (I race 1/8th buggies and 1/10th touring cars) and I would never decribe it as 'slow', takes a while to get there, I admit, but once it's off...anyway, check the two speed, you should be able to hear it shifting clearly.