I need a recommendation on a cam, that shoots HD, can take a little bit of abuse (I don't mean drop it down stairs, but I also don't want it to break when it bumps the wall), and is around 1700 and under new.

Right now, I am looking at the AG-HMC40, but are there better options out there? XLR is not needed, but is a plus - I don't expect it for this price point. This will be used to shoot competitive motorsports which is why I said a touch rugged... filming in car with this thing so it may bump the cage.

Interchangeable lens is not needed, DSLR is not an option for this, and it cannot be tape.

I hate tape.

Ideas?