Well, since I'm accustomed to spending $10K+ just for a crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons for some of the round track engines I've built, sometimes my perspective on what's an acceptable budget gets skewed. Of course, I'm usually spending "somebody else's money" who wants to win races. Good luck on finding something that works for you.
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!