[rschoi_75]

I wouldn't cross off the Vendetta off the list too quickly. Once you factor in upgrades, I actually think that they are some of the toughest 1/18th's around. They only need cvd's and one ball diff in the rear to handle brushless. I have a Neu 1105/2Y in my vendetta, and the buggy handles it with no problems. Daf, I'm not sure what your friends are doing wrong, but I haven't had to wrench on my detta for months. I just clean it and replace bearings and tires from time to time. I actually have had a harder time wrenching on my rc18t's since you have to upgrade sooooo many things to get it up to par. I agree, that they are tough trucks, but they need a lot of fine tuning to handle brushless power reliably.

On another note, I also have a few xray's and I can confidently say these are my favorite 1/18th trucks. Tashpop is correct, the diffs can handle brushless power with no issues. You don't need to shim them, or get different outdrives. The steering set-up is arguably the best of any mini. Its tight, responsive, and no bump steer to speak of. Honestly, the only thing the truck needs are alloy cvd's (if you get the pro, they are included). And if you don't want the c.f. chassis, just get the standard kits.

Another decent option would be the new XTM Rage (sold by Jamara in Europe). It has a very strong drivetrain using open gear diffs. They can handle 3s lipos in stock form. The only downside is that there are no upgrades available yet, and it needs alloy knuckles.
Lastly, I wouldn't consider a MQ anymore since they are on their way out. Its a great truck, but parts availability may become an issue in the next year or so. These are getting phased out in favor of the Vendetta ST (both made by Anderson Racing in Taiwan).

In the end, these are the trucks I would recommend:
- Xray M18MT or M18T Pro (both highly recommended)
- Vendetta ST
- XTM Rage