Newbie Question: 1998 Challenger 1800 or 2001 Challenger 2000?

[Charlie Hustle]

I'm currently looking to purchase a Challenger, and have found quite a few in my area in my price range. This will be my first boat, and I was curious what everyone would recommend between the two. The 98 has the twin Rotax Engines and the 2000 has the Merc 240. Pros and cons to each? How loud are these boats while just cruising around in the water and not going full throttle? I read somewhere that you will get a lot of water inside these boats while playing on the water compared to other boats, how true is that? I'm sure I'll think of more questions as people start responding, but I'll leave it at that for now. Thanks to everyone in advance


Charlie
Houston, Tx

 

[Dr Honda]

Wellllll..................... Everything is relevant.



Noise: All "Sport" boats are loud. The majority of the noise is just wind. So, even a quiet boat, at 35 mph will be loud to the point where you can't have a conversation. If you want to cruse around, an talk with your buddies... buy a Pontoon, with a 9hp 4-stroke. (won't go more than 8 mph)

Water: It's an 18' sport boat, so the bow isn't very tall. SO... yes... you will get splashed if you are driving aggressively, or try to go out in rough water. I've been out on busy weekends with my Islandia and have gotten splashed. So, as you may imagine... it's not well suited for rough coastal waters. (although the 20' will be a little better)


With all that said... it's a sport boat. SO, if that's the kind of boat you want... then you have to accept a little noise, or water. But then again... that's the point of the boat. If you want quiet, and no noise... then you won't be pulling a tube/skier, or having much "fun."



Rotax Vs. Merc: That's a tough one. The Merc is not cheap when there are problems... but then again... with the Rotax boat... you have 2 engines. Not to mention, things like the computer on the Rotax boat are starting to get dang near impossible to find, if you burn one out. (and it's not cheap either) Also... with the Rotax boat... generally... when something happens to a drive part... it will happen on both sides.

Even though the parts may be a little more expensive on the Merc boat... you can still buy them at any Merc dealer. Most of the Rotax parts are discontinued. (but are still out there)


I use to be say to stay away from the Merc boats because of the price tag of the parts. BUT, they are very reliable, and I am happy with my 240 Sportjet in my Islandia.



So....... I guess I would say.... look at the price tag, and see if ether boat has had it's engine(s) replaced yet. Because, if they are the originals... they are at the end of life, and there will be $$$ in your near future.

 

[Sportster-2001-951C-Stock]

Price and most important, condition are everything! The newer 4-strokes will last longer and a stern drive mercruiser is next to impossible to wear out

 

[Tomfrmnh]

I have a Challenger 1800 with the Merc M2 and love the boat. I came from larger stern drives and outboard boats and can tell you the noise thing for me is a non issue. I really like the Merc for the reasons Doc points out. No problem finding parts and pretty easy to work on. It's basically a Mercury outboard.

I haven't notice a huge amount of water coming into the boat. Yes the free board is a little low so you may take some spray but that's it. I wouldn't go run the local inlet with east wind and outgoing tide. Def an inland vessel but lots of fun.


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[SeptemberC]

I have had my 2000 Challenger 1800 for a couple years now. It has the Merc M2 210hp. Last year I had a gasket leak where the engine and the pump housing meet. Somewhere In these forums I posted the video of my leak. The engine had to be pulled for the repair and my certified Mercury mechanic when through mine.
This year I had an intermittent starting problem and after a total carb rebuild and a new OEM stator mine runs perfect. All gauges operate. The vinyl seats are still soft and supple. It has a OEM Bimini that is new. The storage cover has probably one more year on its life but still ok now. I have purchased and installed the extended ride plate that Aquaman had made (which stops porpoising.) Mine is the burgundy and tan. I've already winterized it and it's already in the inside storage facility.
I'm in WV and I'm hoping to sell mine for roughly $7000. two months ago one like mine but in my opinion not as nice as mine and no Bimini sold for $8000

I get no water in the engine compartment since the gaskets were replaced. My mechanic always checks all of the cables and fuel lines twice a year for me. I always use Mercury or Quicksilver oil.
I just purchased an Islandia (family has outgrown the challenger which breaks my heart). If I had my choice we'd keep both but unfortunately I can't [emoji17].

If you are interested just let me know. Everyone here in these forums are great and offer help and support when they can.



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