Potential new zodiac owner

[Rumley]

Hi everyone. I bought my first real boat a month ago and was considering buying a zodiac to keep deflated in it and pump up when needed. I have found what seems to be a decent deal and wanted some opinions. It is a1999 cfr285 zodiac for 500$. I'm in northern Ontario so I realize that I am going to pay more than in the USA. My questions are, is this a good boat? How long would it take to inflate using a foot pump, or an electric pump? It says max hp is 8 but would a 9.8 merc (early 80's) be too much for it? And if anyone has any general information that would be much appreciated.
Thanks in advance,
Kevin

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: Potential new zodiac owner

Hi everyone. I bought my first real boat a month ago and was considering buying a zodiac to keep deflated in it and pump up when needed. I have found what seems to be a decent deal and wanted some opinions. It is a1999 cfr285 zodiac for 500$. I'm in northern Ontario so I realize that I am going to pay more than in the USA. My questions are, is this a good boat? How long would it take to inflate using a foot pump, or an electric pump? It says max hp is 8 but would a 9.8 merc (early 80's) be too much for it? And if anyone has any general information that would be much appreciated.
Thanks in advance,
Kevin

Some issues:

What type of Zodiac is it a : wooden. aluminum, air matt floor sib ? or rib ? Is it new, used. The brand is good, pvc fabric surely. With a standard foot pump about 15-20 minutes, with electric 10 minutes. Can use a 9.8 as both models are about 170 cc each, only carb restricted on the 8.0 model.

Happy Boating