[MetalMan]

We have no idea how the Hyper 9 and the new Xray buggy will compare. That said, I would choose the Hyper 9 simply because it already has a mechanical disk brake at the rear diff. As for it being narrow, the Losi 8ight is also pretty damn narrow.

If you're going to be racing, the 8XL simply will not cut it. Go with a Neu 1512. My Hyper 8 has a Neu 1512 2.5D/F, which has a low kv of about 2000, but runs very well. Geared for about 45mph (pretty much as fast as the fastest nitro buggies) on 4s 4800mah 20C Lipo the motor doesn't get above about 160 deg. in full race conditions. I should also note that the Mamba Max ESC with 4 extra 35v 330uf capacitors added on also does not get above about 150 deg.