Hey,
I have leads on a 2001 Utopia 185 and a 2002 Utopia 205. The 185 is with the carb'd engine, the 205 has the 240 Optimax (says the seller, Boattest.com says the 240 is EFI?). The 205 is down to $11k and the 185 s currently at $9500. I think I can push that down a bit, especially the 185.
Other than the difference in asking prices and years I am trying to weigh the merits of the boats - would love any input.
The 185 has the swing bench seats, which I think I prefer. More seating.
The 240 would be more fuel efficient.
The 185 may be easier to service - both by myself and finding techs familar with it.
Is one engine more reliable than the other?
The 205 is 200lbs heavier. My van is rated for 3500lbs so I have to pay attention to this. But the trailer has brakes, which may make it a safer tow.
205 has that spiffy table.
185 may be easier to store, but it looks like only a foot of difference when looking at actual boat lengths.
The 205 is blue rather than green
Less smoke with the fuel injected model.
The 185 is sold by a dealer that says they will stand behind the engine for 30 days. I also have sea trialed this boat.
185 has small tear in seat and bimini, 205 seems flawless from pictures. But I have kids - the boat will be dinged eventually.
Your thoughts?
I have leads on a 2001 Utopia 185 and a 2002 Utopia 205. The 185 is with the carb'd engine, the 205 has the 240 Optimax (says the seller, Boattest.com says the 240 is EFI?). The 205 is down to $11k and the 185 s currently at $9500. I think I can push that down a bit, especially the 185.
Other than the difference in asking prices and years I am trying to weigh the merits of the boats - would love any input.
The 185 has the swing bench seats, which I think I prefer. More seating.
The 240 would be more fuel efficient.
The 185 may be easier to service - both by myself and finding techs familar with it.
Is one engine more reliable than the other?
The 205 is 200lbs heavier. My van is rated for 3500lbs so I have to pay attention to this. But the trailer has brakes, which may make it a safer tow.
205 has that spiffy table.
185 may be easier to store, but it looks like only a foot of difference when looking at actual boat lengths.
The 205 is blue rather than green
Less smoke with the fuel injected model.
The 185 is sold by a dealer that says they will stand behind the engine for 30 days. I also have sea trialed this boat.
185 has small tear in seat and bimini, 205 seems flawless from pictures. But I have kids - the boat will be dinged eventually.
Your thoughts?
, but heck - throw 8 people on the 205 and slap the table down, put up the bimini and wah-laa! I think there is even a porti-potty option I can put under the tree for her at Christmas.
