i prefer 4 wheel drive. it gets better traction and does better as an all-around basher. they are a little more expensive to maintain due to having more moving parts and drive train components. they are probably a little slower in a straight line than a 2wd, but usually corner better.

i've never used any of the vehicles that you mentioned there, but they're probably good. these days most vehicles from major manufacturers will be fine out of the box.