sensored brushless systems use a 'standard' 'HALL' sensor wire, I think this might be a BRCA regulation but not sure.
I know that novak and LRP/NOSRAM both use the 'HALL' sensor connector.
the differance is that the novak motors the sensor wire is hard wired to the motor, the LRP/NOSRAM motors have a connection each end and different length wires available.
Novan and LRP/NOSRAM should be able to run each others motors but there might be some special software on the speedo that is more suited to running the 'own brand' motors.
with regard to recomendations for off-road motors, I agree, 2-star would be suited to 2WD and 3-star for 4WD..... on dirt!!!
if the grip is there, why not try the seriously quick motors
I ran a 3-star brushless at the model expo last year in 2WD on carpet and it was ace, nice speed but not too much