Ansmann are about to let loose the Blizzard/X4 Pro in a few weeks. 4x4 pretty high spec buggy but still with the Ansmann price tag. If you are just thinking of bashing around and club racing I'd maybe have fun with you're Madrat RTR till April and then get the X4 Pro.
I personally think the new range of Ansmann/TeamC and TeamQ cars will be able to compete against Losi, AE etc if you are wanting to get racing now then probably get the low end scale B4 or Cougar SV for about £180.
Currently The X Pro buggies etc are competing quite well in the US.. I believe Rob Martin has driven some in anger and has done well
I'll be racing my Mod'd Madrat and X4 that's for sure
J