Pre 2000 sounds good, it'd make sure the cars are different to what we use today but without being too restrictive, like you guys say some parts just don't exist any more.
Now you need to find an old Losi XX CR Matt
IMO, lipo's are handy because everybody already has them. I don't miss having to balance NIMH's or deep discharge Nicd's to keep them healthy.
I'd be up for keeping power levels "stock" or thereabouts, I think they'd still be pretty quick around the track even with 27T brushed/17.5T brushless motors.
Something to think about Thurs
