Arrma Notorious 6S BLX vs Traxxas Maxx V2Which Should You Buy?

The Arrma Notorious 6S BLX and Traxxas Maxx V2 represent the top of each brand's monster truck lineup, and choosing between them has fueled internet arguments for years. Both trucks hit 60 mph, but they achieve that number through different approaches. The Notorious runs 6S power with its Firma 2050Kv brushless motor, while the Maxx V2 matches that speed on just 4S thanks to its lighter 9.8 lb curb weight versus the Notorious at 11.38 lbs. That 1.58 lb weight difference matters more than the spec sheets suggest. The Maxx feels more agile in the air and is easier to control mid-jump. The Notorious, being heavier and wider at 18.15 inches versus 17.32, plants itself harder on landings and has a more stable feel at full throttle on rough terrain.

The Maxx V2 benefits from several Traxxas-specific features that add real value. WideMaxx kit compatibility allows you to push the stance even wider for extreme stability. The self-righting feature flips the truck back over after a rollover with a button press, which saves you the walk of shame to go flip your truck. Traxxas's stability management system helps tame the 60 mph power for less experienced drivers. The Notorious counters with Arrma's EXB (Extreme Bash) engineering philosophy, using thicker chassis plates and beefier drivetrain components that are designed from the ground up for high-energy impacts. The Notorious's 6S system cranks out more low-end torque than the Maxx's 4S setup, which matters when you're pulling out of corners or launching off obstacles from a dead stop.

Durability is close to a tie but with different strengths. The Notorious uses stronger diffs and a beefier center driveshaft, which pay dividends when you're repeatedly landing big jumps on 6S power. The drivetrain is overbuilt for the forces it encounters. The Maxx V2 has better ground clearance at 3.15 inches compared to the Notorious's 2.17, which means fewer hang-ups on rough terrain and less chance of high-centering on obstacles. The Maxx's longer wheelbase at 14.13 versus 12.91 inches gives it better high-speed stability and a more planted feel during speed runs. Both trucks are fully waterproof, which is table stakes at this price point. Build quality from both brands is excellent, and replacement parts for either truck are widely available at hobby shops and online retailers.

The Maxx V2 at its mid-range price costs modestly more than the Notorious, but running costs actually tilt in the Maxx's favor. A 4S pack costs moderately more while a comparable 6S pack is a bigger investment. Over a year of regular bashing with multiple battery purchases, the Maxx could save you a moderate amount in battery costs alone. Parts availability slightly favors Traxxas due to their larger dealer network, but Arrma has closed that gap significantly in recent years. Both trucks are serious bashing machines and will satisfy any driver. The real differentiator is that the Notorious rewards aggressive driving with raw torque and a planted, heavy feel, while the Maxx V2 rewards precision with its lighter, more controllable chassis and electronic driver aids.