newb to electric - thinking TC4 and BL system?

[RC-Monster Mike]

Short answer:
11.1 volt Lipo
MGM 80 amp controller
Lehner basic xl5000 or Feigao 8s with RCM heatsink/clamp or lehner basic 4200 or 5300

Either of these will allow you to keep up with the nitros on the top end, but with stronger acceleration. the smaller Lehner motors accelerate a little faster, but will also run a bit warm after some time(especially the 5300). I personally use a basic 4200 on 11.1 Lipos in my tc3, and can pretty easily dust the nitro cars in a drag race.