VIP vs Larson

[Chucksvette]

I currently own an 86 Bayliner capri with the 125hp force. I will be trading up within the next week but am kinda stuck between these 2 boats.<br />1) 1999 VIP 1886 18 ft bowrider. Vinyl and everything else in in good shape has a non origional 90 model 305 in it with Mercruiser outdrive for $7500<br />2) 1996 Larson 194 SEI 19 ft bowrider 5.7 volvo drive. Needs vinyl work pretty badly. $6500.<br />I like the looks of the Larson better(deeper V and all) and other than the vinyl is my first choice. I have a friend that said that he would do the vinyl work for the cost of materials which would be less than $100.<br />Could someone discuss quality of each as I really know nothing about either brand an have had nothing but outboards. We use this for pleasure, skiing, tubing, etc. The VIP came with a 4.3 and now has a 5.0. Will this cause any issues/problems?

 

[KCook]

Re: VIP vs Larson

When in doubt just keep shopping. You won't have any second thoughts when you do come across the right boat.<br /><br />Kelly Cook

 

[jmc830]

Re: VIP vs Larson

ive had volvo and now i have a mercruiser the merc is a peice of s*** loved my volvo both were brand new have more probs with the merc just my opinion

 

[RatFish]

Re: VIP vs Larson

Mercruiser... Volvo... Both use GM engines. Both have clunkers now and again. Both are reliable and proven. IMHO, dealer availability and service would be my deciding factor.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: VIP vs Larson

VIP in my opinion is not much better quality than the Your current boat.I remember reading about a lot of structural problems with them 5-10 years back.I would stay away from it.When you do the vinyl work over,check what the new boats have as far as color and style of vinyl and piping.You can wind up making the boat look years newer by updating.AND DONT USE ANYTHING OTHER THAN MARINE VINYL,or you will be sorry.Charlie

 

[murphini]

Re: VIP vs Larson

I bought an 1989 VIP Victory with 5.0 Cobra(Ford) with the OMC/Cobra outdrive. This boat was owned by a mechanic before me and was kept in very good mechanical shape. I have put over 35 hours on it this summer without incident.<br /><br />THe only concern I would have is to figure out why a 1999 boat has already had the engine replaced.... <br /><br />Other issue I have found is there doesn't seem to be much info on VIP boats on the web or other posts. <br /><br />All I can say is that I have been very pleased with my purchase.