Which one would you buy and why?

[jefro]

Assuming they are all in the same condition and optioned:

1. 1998 Chaparral 205 LE Merc.5.0 FI, Alpha 1
2. 1995 Mirage 211 Merc.5.7, Alpha 1
3. 1995 Wellcraft 196 SCS 4.3 Volvo Penta

Boat is to be operated as a cruiser in the Great Lakes. Maybe pulling the kid on a tube, a little skiing...
These are all great looking boats with low hours and each has it's own strengths...
What do you think

 

[smallboatlover]

Re: Which one would you buy and why?

number 2 bigger,better gas mileage motor.

 

[LippCJ7]

Re: Which one would you buy and why?

With the age of those boats its a crap shoot for anyone on the web, how each boat has been cared for should be the only factor you consider other then which you like better which you already know. Either get a Survey done on them or go through each with a fine toothed comb check the transom and stringers on each, get the motor checked and a test ride then evaluate the added information you have and purchase the appropriate boat.

If these were new Boats I would say I prefer the Chap, I like the lines better it looks sleeker and smooth with a top notch manufacturer. That said these are far from new and therefore the make is of little consideration when compared to the care the boat has been given during its lifetime.

If it sounds like I am against the purchase of a new boat, you would be dead wrong My boat was purchased last year 10 years old I have never purchased any vehicle or boat brand new, I am just very selective.

 

[jefro]

Re: Which one would you buy and why?

Thank you both. I am new to motor boating (was a sailor) and I just don't know much about the characteristics of these brands of boats. The hulls are different designs and I don't know how each will handle or if I should steer clear of any of them...

 

[LippCJ7]

Re: Which one would you buy and why?

No problem, in all honesty the most important thing is to find exactly what kind of used boat you want IE Bow Rider, Cuddy, Cruiser whatever, at that point then we look for the best condition used boat we can find and then you get the money. Take a look in the resto forum http://forums.iboats.com/forumdisplay.php?f=22. This is why we tell people in your shoes the advice I have told you. We try to make boating a great experience for new boaters that way we get more friends in the lifestyle we love. Better that you find a boat in great shape then a great deal on a POS boat. You have already selected the type of boat you want now we need to figure out which is in the best shape, so either hit the thread I suggested and spend some time asking questions or get a Marine Survey(a professional) to look the boat over or go buy a case of beer and get a friend/ask someone educated on boats to go look at them and make your decision.....don't open the case of beer until after you have looked at the boats though just more experience talkin there

 

[jefro]

Re: Which one would you buy and why?

Guys, I really appreciate the advice. Not knowing much about boats, it seems a little overwhelming to try and pick one. I contacted the local marina that will do a detailed inspection for me when I pick one out. I look forward to posting my new boat on here in the next few weeks!
Thanks again.