What motor/ESC for a Mini STe without breaking the bank

[silentbob343]

I've decided to get back in to RC and just purchased a Mini STe. Was wondering what motor/ESC combo to use that will give me good performance without costing an arm and a leg.

I am planning on going with 3s LiFe batteries and a Mamba Max Pro. I know I could save money with an HC ESC, but I like the fact that if something goes awry I can send it in for work/replacement.

I've been looking at Novak's HV series and the traxxas Velineon motor, both can be had pretty cheap, $40-$70 on the used market with the Velineon often being new/unused.

Use for the vehicle will be for mucking about on grass, dirt, asphalt, etc. I question if the Velineon will be powerful enough for this vehicle esp on grass. Is the Velineon ESC even worth considering as an option? I know it isn't nearly as versatile as the MMPro.

I know Neu and Medusa are the orders of the day, but I'm trying to get back in to the hobby at a reasonable price point. Also, since Medusa folded-up shop finding one of their motors in the kv I'm shooting for has been difficult.