I am also actually looking into getting into racing 4wd 1/10.
The two cars I am considering at the moment are the Associated B44 and Hot Bodies D4. What I really liked about the d4 was that it had metric screws, although the top plate has to be raised a couple mm in order to run the battery I want to (Trakpower 4800 saddle pack). The B44 uses standard size screws (unfortunately) but I am not sure if the Trakpower pack will fit without mods. Parts availability for both are great, and I think even better for the b44.
Price however, leaves the D4 behind at $375, as the B44 can be gotten for $310.