What are the Differences in the Various Seadoo Models (GTX, GSX, SX, etc...)?

[Frank_Hassa]

When reading, I find stuff like this occasionally:

So if I find something bad with the compression test, is this thing worth fixing? I mean it's a 21 year old machine, the "bottom of the barrel" model for 1995.

People throw-in these secondary opinions about some kind of "heirarchy" of Seadoo models. Some are considered "super good", i.e. "I've always wanted a '96 SX, and now I finally got one.", and this guy calling his model "bottom of the barrel.".

But how to people know what's highly prized vs. not-so-good, and what order all the various models are, in between? I get the general idea that some models have larger engines. My 1997 GSX doesn't have rear-view mirrors, so I guess that's an "extra" I don't get, but then I've seen Youtube videos where a GSX has rear view mirrors, so I see no rhyme or reason.

 

[Jfrenchws6]

I didn't mean my bottom of the barrel comment to necessarily be a bad thing. But bottom line is it the smallest engine coupled with a hull design that isn't as sporty as other designs, for example the x4. It is an entry level machine, with entry level price and performance. You don't see people going nuts when they find my ski on Craigslist. If you are just getting into the sport, an gts is perfect. But after a while you will want more.

 

[mikidymac]

Seadoo never made an SX.
Seadoo was pretty bad with naming the skis. For the most part the name stayed the same but each year the engines got bigger.
There were 3 classes in general.
The 3 seaters were GTX as top of the line then moving down was GTI then GTS and GT at one point you got progressively smaller engines and fewer options like mirrors.
2 seaters were XP for the smaller hull then SPX to SPI and SP again moving down on engines and options.
The GSX was a mid size again moving down to GSI and GS.

On the XP for example the 95' XP became the 720 SPX in 96' and the 96' XP got the 787.

Honestly they are all fun even a 580 SP.

 

[RodInEscondido]

Great question.

I too have wondered over time if there exists a document/site (marketing stuff) that explains why someone would pick one model over another or, conversely, avoid one model over another.

This has been very useful in explaining progression of SeaDoos over the years and giving help in identifying year/model, but not why there would be preferences:
http://www.seadoosource.com/seadoomodelreference.html

 

[mikidymac]

Like everything everyone wants the top of the line but all can't afford it thus the different models and trim levels. Pretty basic capitalism. Is it an election year or something. LOL.

 

[zephyer]

I have a 2001 GTI, a 2001 GTX, and a 1997 XP.
The XP is more a one person ski, you can ride two but its tricky. Its fast. And if your not careful...flips easily...but that's the fun of it.

The GTI is more of a family ski, kid friendly and harder to flip. You can ride up to 3 people comfortably and still have fun.

The GTX is still kind of of a family ski, but faster then the GTI. A lot easier to do a 360 on this ski then the GTI.

All seadoo's are fun, just depends what your looking for and what you want for the ride.....and how much money you have

 

[Frank_Hassa]

Just found this:

http://www.jetskiplus.com/seadoomodelref