Watercraft Concepts in Raleigh sold a single engine Challenger '97 model for $5200. It was really clean, and I'm guessing had all new/rebuilt internals. They said they got it up to 50 with two people, but that may have been on the dream-0-meter. Regardless, that boat running in the mid-high fourties is considered "healthy". But wow, I never would have guessed one could get that much for that boat.
well partly it`s hard to comprehend bc most boats like ours are crap when sold used. worn seats/upholstery, blow engines etc etc. but when you upgrade "everything", and start adding radios/VHF depth, etc etc it starts to add up. I paid more than that 5200 price tag before I even opened the hatch. It kills me to see butchered boats on the water, they risk everyones lives...
a boat is worth only what one is willing to pay if they want that particular boat. just like the older cars, been there and done that...lol...
I consider mine in the top tier of Challenger 1800`s and will get a decent dollar for it.
I don`t skimp or cheap out when my family`s safety is concerned out on the water...
speed is not a concern nor should it be a selling point. anyone can push their boat to the edge continually until something breaks. 35-40 is plenty fast with passengers and dogs on board. Something in the water approaches fast at even those speeds.
The challenger 1800 will see 44-45 all day long with speeds near 48-52 depending on load and fuel weight. I rarely see max speed bc I`m always carrying a full fuel load, adults, dogs and gear.
I do remember being alongside this boat at 52+ GPS when the OP had it, some years ago and his max speed was 54 running skat 17\22 impellers...
you can`t have it both ways, reduce the load on the engines for longer life with say a 15\21 or stocker, or load the engines down trying to get a few more MPH...
