2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

[Doc_Vegas]

OK folks, this is the last comparison I will ask of you. Some of you likely saw my previous posts about the Maxum. I did commit to it today, but I could get out of it if I need to before Monday morning.

Here is the deal, I will get one of these two boats, and originally I dismissed the Sea Ray due to price and being older. But the more research I conduct and based on some new developments with the Maxum, I figured I should check on here one last time.

The candidates:

2001 Maxum 2700 SCR - 7.4L (300 hours), generator, AC, vacuum-flush head, NO trailer, a bit rough condition. Some decent scratches and the hull is quite faded. Some corrosion on the outer parts - it has seen time in the Ocean, which I did not know until a few minutes ago when looking through the paper work. No idea on the previous owners (bank repo) or what how the maintained the boat. Dealer says is runs like a champ - out the door price with detailing and fluids changed and new impeller around $27,500 (here is the link to the boat - http://www.boulderboats.com/pre_owned_detail.asp?veh=1011487 ).

The contender is a 1998 Sea Ray Sundancer 270 (250 hours) - same motor and outdrive, same options all around - DOES include a triple-axle trailer (I would rarely use) - and it is REAL clean and never seen salt water. Seller is local, second owner, and claims meticulous maintence - never sliped always covered. He is at $30k, maybe a small amount of negotiation possible, but unlikely. Here is the link to the Sea Ray: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220308986864&_trksid=p2759.l1259

So, what is the vote? I like the looks of the Maxum a bit more, the interior is definitely more modern. But, I am more worried about the maintenance issues and salt water on the Maxum. I like the idea of having the trailer, but I really could not pull it with my current vehicle.

THANKS AGAIN!

 

[sundowner205]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

In my opinion, the Searay is of much better quality, and will hold [it's] value much longer than the rebadged Bayliner will...just my 2 cents.

 

[marine4003]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

Hands down - SEARAY, your comparing two completely different classes of boat, Maxim's lower tier..plus sounds like the previous owner didnt maintain or even care about the boat,plus most searay owners are anal about there boats,you get what you pay for.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

if they are in the same cosmetic condition, Sea Ray. they both are at the age that they will need the same deferred maintainance, if it has not already been done. the trailer is worth the difference, and it is always good to have a trailer for a boat. it will take a 3/4 to 1 ton Surburban or equal vehicle to tow that monster.

 

[a70eliminator]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

Bank repo raises a flag. pretty much says no maintainence, they couldn't even afford the payments, and from the description it shows. Of course the deazler is going to tell you it runs like a champ. Sounds like the sea ray would be worth the extra cabbage.

 

[torcano]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

The Searay only has a 8'6' beam compared to the 9'5" beam of the Maxum. This may not seem like much, but it makes a huge difference in terms of the cabin comfort and feel of the boat. The Searay has a "sanipotty" head. The vacuflush is far superiore if you are actully going to use this and sleep on the boat. I sold my SeaRay for a Chaparral for several reasons. The Searay was a good boat but it also had a "sanipotty" , lacked A/C and an electric windlass. I strongly suggest you have the Maxum inspected by a certified marine surveyor including a sea trial and have the engine tested on the computer. I would not take the dealer's word for this. If the Maxum is in excellent mechanical condition and only needs to be cleaned, I would go with the Maxum. It will be a more comfortable boat, especially if you plan to sleep on it. A good compounding a waxing can do wonders to a boat's finish. Finally, 30K for a 1998 270 DA seems a little high especially in today's market.

 

[204 Escape]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

For whatever it counts, here is my $0.02 worth.

The Sea Ray:

1) Has a trailer. ( I wouldn't consider a boat without one, + I don't want to have to go and find one).

2) By your own admission, the MAXUM has cosmetic flaws. (I am very picky about the appearance of my boat)

3) As already stated, I personally agree that the Sea Ray has a better resale value

4) ALSO, as already stated, the price of the trailer off sets the price difference.

5) R E P O says run to the nearest exit, do NOT walk !!!!!!!!!!

6) You are buying a Sea Ray rom an individual. IF the owner is honest, he can tell you about the boat, and possibly provide service records, or send you tot he shop that has maintained the boat. NOT necessarily possible on a repo.

Just my opoinions

 

[NoKlu]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

A little off topic but the Searay says "No Reserve" on the auction but the bidding Starts at $29,888. What??? If you go with the ray contact seller with a lower offer. Good luck with which ever one you decide on.

 

[Summer Fun]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

I would go with the the Sea Ray . Its too bad its not a 10ft wide a*s

 

[Doc_Vegas]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

Thanks again guys. The Sea Ray seller is very firm on that opening bid price. Seems like a fair deal. The Maxum is a bit easier for me for a few reasons, and the dealer will not be pleased if we back out, but we can by tomorrow AM without too much hassle. I will try to look at the Sea Ray today in person.

Thanks!

 

[QC]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

Tough call for me . . . I would normally say the Sa Ray, but the extra beam matters.

The cosmetic stuff doesn't matter to me as that can be cleaned. I keep an imaculate boat as well, but that's how she'll be treated from this point forward, so not sure why that matters if I can make her look good. I am also not afraid of the repo, or even the maintenance that much. IMHO, if she makes good power, the gimbal ring is good, and a quick look at the gimbal beraing feels OK, I am not sure what the issues are other than the manifiolds which do need consideration concerning the Salt water potential. All fixable if there is an issue down the road.

What about electronics? I didn't look very closely, but the Sea Ray doesn't have GPS. Forgot about the Maxum . . .

The trailer and the tax are definitely issues that need to be considered. Good luck!! Tough call.

 

[Doc_Vegas]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

Thanks QC. We are really torn, but will probably end up with the Maxum. More a pragmatic decision at this point as we put a large deposit on the Maxum. It comes down to trust at this point. The dealer guys seemed great and I felt like they were giving me the straight truth. In case you are wondering why I did not look at the Sea Ray first, it was price. The seller was originally around $38k, making it a solid $10k more than the Maxum. It was not until recently that he came down to $30k. I spoke to the Sea Ray owner today by email and he is FIRM at $30k.

Even with the detailing and services I ordered, the Maxum is still $2k+ cheaper than the Sea Ray. YES, the Maxum as a LOWRANCE 1600 Global GPS system and the Sea Ray does not. The Maxum also has the far better toliet, and the inside just looks more modern (let alone wider).

I wish the Maxum had a trailer, but I honestly have no vehicle to pull it safely at this point. Even if I had a trailer, I would be stuck storing at my house, not a big problem, but a bit of a hassle.

We'll see what happens tomorrow, but I will probably need to stick with the Maxum. If the dealer is willing to cancel my check and refund the deposit, then I will look at the Sea Ray on Tuesday (first chance).

Thanks again - you never know!

 

[MTribe08]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

Thanks QC. We are really torn, but will probably end up with the Maxum. More a pragmatic decision at this point as we put a large deposit on the Maxum. It comes down to trust at this point. The dealer guys seemed great and I felt like they were giving me the straight truth. In case you are wondering why I did not look at the Sea Ray first, it was price. The seller was originally around $38k, making it a solid $10k more than the Maxum. It was not until recently that he came down to $30k. I spoke to the Sea Ray owner today by email and he is FIRM at $30k.

Even with the detailing and services I ordered, the Maxum is still $2k+ cheaper than the Sea Ray. YES, the Maxum as a LOWRANCE 1600 Global GPS system and the Sea Ray does not. The Maxum also has the far better toliet, and the inside just looks more modern (let alone wider).

I wish the Maxum had a trailer, but I honestly have no vehicle to pull it safely at this point. Even if I had a trailer, I would be stuck storing at my house, not a big problem, but a bit of a hassle.

We'll see what happens tomorrow, but I will probably need to stick with the Maxum. If the dealer is willing to cancel my check and refund the deposit, then I will look at the Sea Ray on Tuesday (first chance).

Thanks again - you never know!

Just my 2 cents.

Go with your gut. If the both engines/drives are in the same good shape, the cosmetic issues can be cleaned and brought back, go with what you would rather have sitting in your slip.

Just make sure a complete and thorough exam is done on the engine and drive on the Maxum and feel good about that part. Then decide what setup you would rather have for your family inside the boat.

I'm hearing in your voice that you would be happier with the Maxum.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

question, do you have a slip available for either boat. slips here are at a premium, when you find one. not having a tow vehicle, means a having to have a slip immediately.

 

[Doc_Vegas]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

Thanks again guys - YES - we have a slip locked down. With the economy in Nevada continueing to decline, there are PLENTY of slips. I ended up getting a great slip at Lake Mead Marina in the "fairway". Lots of space and clear view of the marina (better security).

I can't wait!

 

[lkbum]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

If there are lots of slips aviable, there should also be a supply of used boat lifts. I don't recall if the boats you were looking at were bottom painted, but if not, I would look for a used hydrohoist, float air, polylift etc. Other than the boat, it will be the best purchase you will ever make.

 

[Doc_Vegas]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

If there are lots of slips aviable, there should also be a supply of used boat lifts. I don't recall if the boats you were looking at were bottom painted, but if not, I would look for a used hydrohoist, float air, polylift etc. Other than the boat, it will be the best purchase you will ever make.

You're spot-on. We heard there will be lifts available, just need to find one. I am very pleased with the slip we picked, should be a great spot. The lift would be ideal.

I assume that if you are staying on the boat - at the slip - that you would keep the boat in the water, not elevated on the hoist, or???

Thanks again!

 

[lkbum]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

that's potentially one negative of the lift, boarding when it's up. If you back into the slip, you can ususally step right from the dock to the swim platform. If it's up, you will need a set of dock steps (climbing onto the platform is easy to do when to boat is up, but if I were staying on the boat, I would want a set of stairs, several polymer steps are available or docks). MAKE SURE and look at lifts that allow you to back into them (not all do), I know float air makes this type of lift and I think hydrohoist does also. It would probably be easiest just to leave the boat down while you are staying on it. Keeping it in the water while on board will also make it easier to maintain the temperature in the boat while you are on it (cooler during the day and warmer at night).

 

[Doc_Vegas]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

OK folks, looks like its going to be the Maxum! The polls here certainly show the Sea Ray on top, but there are several reasons we decided to stick with the Maxum, mainly because we did not want to back out of the deposit. My wife and I did make a trip across town to see the Sea Ray. Here is what we thought seeing the two boats 1/2 hr apart.

The Sea Ray appeared to be in better condition. Less scratches and better looking gel coat. Except, the transom on the Sea Ray which had a TON of spider web cracks and some evidence of repair. Aside from cosmetics, the Maxum was hands down a better layout. The extra 1-foot in the beam truly made a big difference. The Maxum looked significantly more modern, and actually cleaner (less used) on the inside. The trailer would have been nice, but I probably should not tempt myself by trying to pull a boat that my Sequoia can not handle, and I really do not feel like buying a new truck/SUV/van right now. Maybe later depending on how we like the slip at Lake Mead.

We went back to the boat dealer and they were great! The promised, in writing, that the boat is, and would be, tip-top when it went to the water. I believe them and we are feeling good about the deal (fingers crossed of course).

Also, Steve from this site called me just a few minutes after we saw the Maxum again and he really helped us out - seems he has had great luck with his Maxum and highly recommended the boat.

Again, if I could do this over from the beginning, it is likely I would have went with the Sea Ray based on this forum. But at this point, trying to undo the Maxum would have been painful and we honestly did not like the Sea Ray any more.

I know its a bit risky, but wish us luck!

Thanks again! I will post-up some pictures from our first outing in about a week.

 

[torcano]

Re: 2001 Maxum vs. 1998 Sea Ray

Good luck with your new boat. If you it makes it any easier to sleep at night, a mathmatical sample size of 16 is of no statistical significance. If the boat is mechanically sound, I'm sure you will have no regrets. The extra one foot of beam and the vacuflush head will make staying on the boat much more comfortable than the Searay. Most of the people I know who have Maxums are very happy with their boat. A good compound an waxing can do wonders to the appearance of a boat.