I rode 200 miles in two days on a $700 raleigh hybrid. And yes, there were some hills. I changed over to a road bike because I hoped to close the gap some between my husband and myself. It helped... a little.

But in the mean time, i've been riding A LOT on my road bike and that is helping immensely.
bottom line; what do you need to keep you riding? Do you ride with other people? what are they riding? It helps if you're riding the same style of bike, but like with me, it will not make up completely for your lack of speed and endurance.