Looking to buy.....

[Jeffy]

Hi everyone, I am new to this forum but have been creeping on it for a few months now.

I am planning on attending the boat show in Toronto, Ontario this coming January to purchase a boat. Here is my question:

I am looking brand new because I want the comfort to know that the boat has not been abused and that I have a warranty with it. I know it will cost slightly more but I am willing to pay.

The two boats I am considering are the 2008 150 Speedster SCIC with the wakeboard tower. For $1000 more I can get the 2008 180 Challenger with no tower.

I believe the Speedster will be more fun to drive but can't help but feel for an extra $1000 I am stupid for not buying the bigger boat. I know it's all personal preference but I am thinking about 3 more feet and double the seating. What about better handling in rougher water?

I know I will be sacrificing a lot of "fun to drive" for practicality.

I have time to think so opinions of owners of both boats would be really appreciated.

Thanks, Jeff

 

[Nate Surveyor]

Must be nice to have such problems...

I say you might find a used one, with few hrs on it, and be real happy, and save a bunch of dough!

It's what I'd do.

N

 

[Jeffy]

I understand that but as I stated, I am willing to pay more for the peace of mind by purchasing brand new. With the incentives being offered right now I have only found it to be a few thousand more to purchase new and get the full warranty. I am looking more at the differences between the boats.

Jeff

 

[unclejay]

Challenger vs Speedster

You are talking Ford Taurus against Mazda RX-8.

Bombardier bought the Challeger line from another boat company, it is a family boat like a Regal or a Bayliner. In my opinion you should buy a regular family boat like a Chapparal, if you want a family boat - why put up with Sea Doo's over-stressed engines ?

Speedsters, on the other hand, are sports cars. You cannot whip a Challenger around like a Speedster. Also the 3 feet extra length is a real handicap in a garage.

This is a big bucks important decision. Thats my 2 cents.

 

[texasmojo]

I have a small garage. I drive a ford supercrew and it BARELY fits. The challenger is about the same lenght and it fits in my garage too. I had to do the fold away tongue though. You cant go wrong with either one. It just depends on the amount of people and the space you really need.

 

[Jeffy]

My worry is handling in the rougher waters and buying either one and regretting either not buying the bigger boat or having the bigger boat but wishing I had the performance and speed of the 150.

I am leaning towards the 150 strongly, but with such an expensive purchase I want to be sure I am making the right decision. I know I can always sell the boat 4-5 years down the road and get another model. I would not even consider the 180 if it weren't for only being $1000 difference.

I guess I am just thinking about fun on the water and speed vs practicality and perhaps a nicer boat to ride in. This is why I really value your opinions as owners.

I have been looking at other manufacturers and decided if I don't go BRP I would get a FourWinns.

Texasmojo, would you say you have fun out on the water booting around in your 180?

What do you mean by over-stressed engines?
I will be storing the boat indoors by my cottage not at home in my garage.


Thanks, Jeff