actually the closest [and better than] to maya is def xsi.
and python was available for xsi already. maya is just starting with it. xsi has better modeling tool [modo + silo combined] better rendering speed. and with version 6 its leaving everyone else behind
check it.

https://www.softimage.com/products/xs...ideo_tour.aspx

and fnd is less than 450$ so,
thats a no brainer. i dont think ive used maya in probably months almost...
i dont think ill go back to it unless im getting paid to:p
and ncloth is not as impressive as it seems. and not worth the price tag for maya unlimited when there are other solutions.