The Associated is a very good truck. I haven't drivin one myself, but I do have an Associated that is my race truck because of the strength and quality. I would imagine that the Savage is a lil tougher because of the way it's designed, but I couldn't give an answer either way unless I personally had one of each. Even IF the Savage was tougher (I have no idea if it is because I don't have both of them to test), I'm sure the associated is not far behind. I think aftermarket support might be alil better with the Savvy as well.