I think the Gorgon is meant more for the parents that just want to get a cheap "hobby grade" 1/10 RC for their kids, while the more expensive models are the ones really meant for customization (Boost, 3S, etc). It's in that same category as ECX, Duratrax, Redcat bashers, etc.
How is the Gorgon borderline toy-grade? It ticks all of the boxes like bearings, oil filled shocks, etc.
The only notable fault that stood out to me were the intergrated shock towers, and most of the chassis being two pieces. Kinda makes it hard to design aftermarket parts.
I'd buy the Gorgon. Monster trucks are better at tackling more types of terrain than SCTs, and it's a much more modern design. The plastic used in the Gorgon is more rubbery than Traxxas, which makes it hold up to bashing better.
Alternatively there's the Associated MT10, I haven't seen one up...