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View Full Version : Looking for some Opinions from all of you for a boat purchase



Team Jefe
06-28-2006, 03:38 PM
I don't get to involved in this forum much...most of my engine issues and things are best disucssed at Scream and Fly. But things may be changing.

We are considering gettiing into the Go-Fast market. Renee has been admiring them for a while and the time may be right to make a move.

Here is my question, with the following constraints,
What boats would you consider for purchase
....ANY BRAND please.....Nobody loves Donzi more than me, but I have two already and want to be open-minded...that is why I am asking.

Constraints
1. $50,000 max
2. 28 ft minimum - really looking more at +30ft, but I want to keep an open mind
3. 65 MPH minimum
4. prefer Single Engine, but not a must -- speaking of engines, no crazy blower motors, etc. I am a turn key guy and don't want to be rebuilding these engines all the time.
5. 1990 oldest
6. Mid-cabins are OK if the can be closed up.
7. V-Hull, Cats are nice, but I've already been doing some insurance checks and its just too expensive for the cats

We would even look at the new CC Sport Boats...kinda like fish boats but not really....still go-fast is the key. Microwaves, electric head, flat panel tv's, blah, blah are not a nessesity I could take it or leave it....and prefer to leave it. A port-a-poti for emergencies is good enough.

We have started looking and the 28ZX & ZXO was first on the list, and are being considered, 33ZX...yes, but #1 is an issue. We also looked at Nordic 28, Formula, Scarabs, Profiles, Sutphens, Cigarettes, Black Thunder, Cobra, Sonic, Predator, and many more I can't think of.

OK, put yourself in my shoes and tell me your ideas on how to move this process forward....all relevenat info is welcomed, finaincing, insurance, whatever. call if you want to 713 825 2443

Sofa King
06-28-2006, 03:57 PM
What year did Skater come out with the 28? I think that will be my next boat.

Arip

onesubdrvr
06-28-2006, 04:08 PM
Jefe,

Joe's my buddy and all, but this is truely a sweet ride, fits you requirements.

BEAUTIFUL boat, interesting history. If I was looking for a 30' boat, and had 35k to spend on it, this would be the one.

And, I wouldn't be worried about the year on this one, if memory serves me correctly, it wasn't even registered until 2000, some kind of distributer show boat / sat in a warehouse for a while / etc. As we all know, a 30 year old boat that has been babied can be better than a 2 year old boat that has been neglected!

http://www.donzi.net/forums/showthread.php?t=43816

Wayne

Hotspare
06-28-2006, 04:15 PM
Get a Sutphens or a Pantera if you can find one ,,,,, great image boats as well .......

JimG
06-28-2006, 04:35 PM
Well, if you are not going to buy my Stryker...:wink:

This would be a good choice... scratch the ugly graphics off and you have one sweeeet single!

http://www.yachtworld.com/core/listing/pl_boat_detail.jsp?&units=Feet&checked_boats=1536655&slim=broker&&hosturl=americanyachtsales&&ywo=americanyachtsales&

BUIZILLA
06-28-2006, 04:48 PM
Sunsation builds a NICE boat...........:yes: :yes:

EricG
06-28-2006, 05:30 PM
You are in the position I desparately want to be in, shopping for my next boat, and your criteria is very similar to mine (hopefully by next year, but been saying that for 5 years):

1. $50,000 max
2. 28-30 range
3. 60 MPH minimum
4. Twin SBC is preferred, or Twin Stock BBC.
5. I'm not putting an age restriction, but it's got to be in nice shape, clean survey, and financeable.
6. Cuddy is important - no ZXO.
7. V-Hull.
8. Stand-up bolsters


So, here is my list
28 Pantera
28 Cig SS (Preferably Sean's old one when it shows up again :wink: )
28 ZX

I also like, but probably won't go for because I'm really stuck on the 3 above:
Superboat
Formula
Sutphen
Scarab

Good luck with the hunt - I can't wait to hear what you end up with.

EG

Cuda
06-28-2006, 08:20 PM
Joe's Formula...
Damn, you beat me to it! :)

And don't forget the multi Donzi owner's discount. :)

http://www.offshoreonly.com/esvon/page-10284.html

onesubdrvr
06-28-2006, 09:41 PM
Damn, you beat me to it! :)

Joe,... Look up,...beat you BOTH to it!!! :wink: :yes: :shades:

Wayne

Team Jefe
06-29-2006, 03:45 PM
Thanks Gents - and Cuda that is a NICE ride, but I guess I should have been more clear on the single engine issue...that is our true preference....no matter waht we get is will need a build soon and I don't relish building two motors.

Jim- I already have my eye on that sunsation...thanks

Also, does anyone know anything about the Nordic 28 Flame....its on the lower end of teh length range and looks more like a 26' boat at the water line, just curious if anyone has amy expereince in rough waters???

Team Jefe
06-29-2006, 03:47 PM
this is one Renee found....it is in the ballpark, not crazy about the procharger, but....

http://www.boats.com/listing/boat_details.jsp?entityid=14100621&searchtype=buy&searchid=1&back=%2Flisting%2Fcache%2Flisting_search_results.j sp%3Fbclsint%3D512%26payingBrandsOnly%3Dtrue%26wuo m%3D126%26toLength%3D32%26fromPrice%3D30000%26ftid %3D100%26ps%3D30%26ps%3D30%26psdistance%3D1%26so%3 D2%26pszipcode%3D77581%26toPrice%3D50000%26uom%3D1 26%26fromYear%3D1988%26searchtype%3Dbuy%26bcint%3D 1%26duom%3D126%26sm%3D3%26toYear%3D2003%26currency id%3D100%26luom%3D126%26fromLength%3D28%26ic%3Dtru e%26sfm%3Dfalse%26slim%3Dquick%26searchPage%3D%252 Flisting%252Fcache%252Fadvanced_search.jsp%26n%3D1 5%253A1%253A89671%253A90775%253A866%26is%3Dfalse&showDL=false&showMD=false

Ed Donnelly
06-29-2006, 07:08 PM
Jefe; You can always pull the pro charger off and sell it.
Check out Mops web site he has a few things there. Think church...Ed

olredalert
06-29-2006, 08:18 PM
-------Thought you said no cats??? Buizilla stole my thunder on Sunsations. I live about 12 miles from the factory and have developed a respect for them. They seem well built. Another choice might be Powerquest. Theres a hell of a nice one down the street thats been half-axxed for sale for awhile now. you know; out in his front yard with a plastic hardware store for sale sign on it. Appears to be 28/30 and is a single, clean, and fresh water since new. Ive never even been on one but the guys up around here seem to like 'em a bunch. Ill get particulars on that local one if you want..........Bill S

tiger lily
06-29-2006, 09:05 PM
check into "powerplay" the real powerplays too, not the early ones that were powerquest but named powerplay, before the real powerplay sued them.

Team Jefe
06-30-2006, 07:19 AM
WOW Bill I totally missed the Cobra was a pickle fork....yeah, NO CATS...I guess she was sending me way too many boats to look at:bonk:

Powerquest and Powerplay are on the list and yes, please check out any local boats you know of....its always fun to shop, especially with someone esles money:wink:

Eddie, I'll check with Phil and see....church huh?

Cuda
07-01-2006, 10:33 AM
Joe,... Look up,...beat you BOTH to it!!! :wink: :yes: :shades:
Wayne
Yep, you sure did. :)

Cuda
07-01-2006, 10:41 AM
Most single engine boats in the 28 to 30 ft range are going to probably be disapointing performance wise, if they are naturally aspirated. If I wanted a single engine boat in that size, I'd go with a 28 Pantera. They have been building them forever, you should be able to find a good deal on one. A friend of mine has one with a 650 NA Innovation engine, and it hauls the mail! It's also damn near as big as my 302. That's a boat you wouldn't have to worry about it falling apart from under you.
They also make a twin engine 28, but I'd stay away from them. Not much gain at all over a single, and twice the maintenance.

Cuda
07-01-2006, 10:48 AM
You can even get a 28 with eggbeaters, which seems to be your preference. :)

http://www.offshoreonly.com/esvon/page-5521.html

Sofa King
07-01-2006, 11:02 AM
Anyone remember the ole Winner 28? Perhaps an old Egg, Luhrs or Silverton.

I'm just sayin'
Arip

Sofa King
07-01-2006, 11:12 AM
I bet u can find a smoking deal on a John Allmond 28.

I'm just sayin
Arip

Cuda
07-01-2006, 11:33 AM
I bet u can find a smoking deal on a John Allmond 28.
I'm just sayin
Arip
My first boat was a John Allmand 23. Solid as a tank! :)

Donzigo
07-02-2006, 06:24 AM
Jefe,

You really ought to have Joe send you some pics of his Formula. The other boats that you are considering, in the 28 foot category will not compare to the ride of his Formula.

Besides, his boat kicks up a wicked rooster tail that will make your heart skip a beat and your lady's headlights light up like Roman candles...........what's not to love?

Cuda
07-02-2006, 06:33 AM
I might take the Formula out today. I usually don't run during the holiday weekends, too many kooks on the water, but I've been shining on the 302 for a couple days, and it's got my blood running hot for a ride again. Besides, the 22 is in the shop. :)

Sofa King
07-02-2006, 10:45 AM
302 u say, dat seems awful small unless it's a Gail Banks twin turbo with 900 hp.

I'm just sayin
Arip

Cuda
07-02-2006, 11:25 AM
302 u say, dat seems awful small unless it's a Gail Banks twin turbo with 900 hp.
I'm just sayin
Arip
No, the Formula 302. Twin 468's, I'm guessing 475+ per side. :)

Cuda
07-02-2006, 11:27 AM
Today's run was scrubbed. I started both engines right up, but the starboard engine wasn't pumping water. Just the other day I was thinking how lucky I've been not to have to change an impeller in that boat. I reckon my luck just ran out. :(

Sofa King
07-02-2006, 01:23 PM
Anyone remeber the Performer 28? Dat was a good boat. Gas and diesel options.

Arip

Cuda
07-02-2006, 01:26 PM
Jefe, here's a few pictures of some 28 Panteras. That's what you need. :)

BUIZILLA
07-02-2006, 02:16 PM
Anyone remeber the Performer 28? Dat was a good boat. Gas and diesel options.
Aripfrom my memory. the Performer 28 is a DONZI 28 popoff, with a few deck changes.. they ARE very good boats if you can find one, heavy though..

JH

Sofa King
07-02-2006, 05:08 PM
Yep JH, They were great boats. I busted out of hillsboro inlet in s. fl in a 28' beam was 9'6" I believe with Gail Bank turbos. Ride was awesome in 6-8'. 90 mph boat. In 82 that was fast. I think the 32 shared the same hull as a black fin, my buddies old company who now owns Jupiter. He was the CEO for Bertram for a while. The only thing I miss about S Fl is the water :wink:

Arip

EricG
07-02-2006, 11:14 PM
Jefe, here's a few pictures of some 28 Panteras. That's what you need. :)

Stop posting pictures of these...this is what I really, really want and can't afford right now - and you aren't helping :smash: :banghead: :banghead:

At least you didn't post a pic of Tim's old one with the eye's - that's my favorite :yes:

EG

kw1605
07-03-2006, 12:39 AM
try http://proroc.com/used.htm they may have what your looking for if your around nj

dockrocker
07-05-2006, 10:50 AM
I don't get to involved in this forum much...most of my engine issues and things are best disucssed at Scream and Fly. But things may be changing.
We are considering gettiing into the Go-Fast market. Renee has been admiring them for a while and the time may be right to make a move.
Here is my question, with the following constraints,
What boats would you consider for purchase
....ANY BRAND please.....Nobody loves Donzi more than me, but I have two already and want to be open-minded...that is why I am asking.
Constraints
1. $50,000 max
2. 28 ft minimum - really looking more at +30ft, but I want to keep an open mind
3. 65 MPH minimum
4. prefer Single Engine, but not a must -- speaking of engines, no crazy blower motors, etc. I am a turn key guy and don't want to be rebuilding these engines all the time.
5. 1990 oldest
6. Mid-cabins are OK if the can be closed up.
7. V-Hull, Cats are nice, but I've already been doing some insurance checks and its just too expensive for the cats
We would even look at the new CC Sport Boats...kinda like fish boats but not really....still go-fast is the key. Microwaves, electric head, flat panel tv's, blah, blah are not a nessesity I could take it or leave it....and prefer to leave it. A port-a-poti for emergencies is good enough.
We have started looking and the 28ZX & ZXO was first on the list, and are being considered, 33ZX...yes, but #1 is an issue. We also looked at Nordic 28, Formula, Scarabs, Profiles, Sutphens, Cigarettes, Black Thunder, Cobra, Sonic, Predator, and many more I can't think of.
OK, put yourself in my shoes and tell me your ideas on how to move this process forward....all relevenat info is welcomed, finaincing, insurance, whatever. call if you want to 713 825 2443

Speaking from a completely self-interested standpoint, you could buy mine ;)

1996 Powerquest 290
454 LX MPI's, 330 hp, 65 mph
Head/fridge/sink/micro
Freshwater boat
Always professionally maintained (I write the check to a true professional ;) )
Under $40K, leaves you $10K for gas and boat soda :D
The pics tell the tale, the boat is pretty damn clean expecially for being 10 years old.
Trailer is a '91 Magnum, new wheel cylinders, new master cylinder, new tires. Some surface rust but tows very smoothly and the boat centers perfectly every time.

Donzi Angel
07-05-2006, 12:22 PM
yes, finally I chime in here .....dockrocker...where are you located?

RENEE

Donzi Jenn
07-05-2006, 12:49 PM
If my eyes are working properly, the MC number tells me the boat is likely in Michigan. If you're interested, let us know if Randy and I can help out!

Donzi Angel
07-05-2006, 01:04 PM
Dang girl....your eyes are working better than mine...then again it could be all the rum & coke I had to drink last night.....(oh, my head!)

I'll get with Jefe about it this evening.

THANKS!

RENEE

dockrocker
07-05-2006, 01:39 PM
Yep, the boat is in the Detroit, MI area. As far as I know, it has lived in Michigan it's whole life (PQ's factory is in Holland, MI, on the west side of the state).

I see from the 713 area code you're down Houston way - lived there for almost 5 years back in the mid-90's. I was out by 290 and FM1960.

Anyway, I've got a bunch of high-res pics of the boat if you want me to e-mail them, just let me know.

- Mike

Donzi LG
07-06-2006, 11:56 AM
There's a nice 28ZX just listed on ebay, single engine....
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Donzi-28ZX-Performance-Boat-FRESHWATER-ONLY_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ26432QQihZ018QQite mZ280004775288QQrdZ1

Team Jefe
07-07-2006, 08:58 AM
WOW, thankls for all the good responses...I need to check in more during my time off.

Joe - the pantera info is great, I will check it out.

Mike, yes, please send me some photos. I'm really trying to stick with a single, but want to keep my options open.

keep the good infor coming folks, we are on teh hunt.
:hyper:

roadtrip se
07-07-2006, 10:19 AM
Jefe my brother, a 28+ go-faster with a single and any sort of cabin, is going to be dog meat most of the time, and easily passed by the Revenge and maybe even the OB22. Scratch.

The 28ZX is a good candidate and the 2000-2001's can be bought in the $50-ish range. And the 350's are cheap to replace, so you could throw them away when ready for new. And if you don't mind paying for premium juice, a Scorpion boat will run 80+, and I've seen a few that could be picked off in the $60's.

Another idea is the 26ZX. You don't lose much on the 28ZX. They run like absolute bricks in the rough. No rattles and heavy.
Fly and land straight. 67-69 with a 502 and easily at your price point or even lower.

I've not seen one mention of Fountain here either. Forget Reggie and all of the BS that goes with him, his 29 and 32's are solid. And there are a lot of them out there. A mid-90's, stepped 32 with 502's could be done for $50k-ish and you would have a 77-80 mph boat with a real nice cabin.

Good luck with the addition to the fleet dude!

blackhawk
07-07-2006, 12:48 PM
If I ever move up to a 28-30' boat, this is my list:

Pantera 28
Active Thunder 28
Superboat Y2K
Activator 27
Kryptonite 27

Cuda
07-07-2006, 10:15 PM
If I ever move up to a 28-30' boat, this is my list:
Pantera 28
Active Thunder 28
Superboat Y2K
Activator 27
Kryptonite 27
I agree with your first two picks, the last three are too narrow for my taste in that size boat.

Cuda
07-07-2006, 10:17 PM
Jefe my brother, a 28+ go-faster with a single and any sort of cabin, is going to be dog meat most of the time, and easily passed by the Revenge and maybe even the OB22. Scratch.!
My friend with a 28 Pantera and 600 Innovation, (or was it 650?) runs 82 to 84, which I don't classify as dogmeat. :)

p729lws
07-08-2006, 11:54 AM
I agree with your first two picks, the last three are too narrow for my taste in that size boat.


What are the handling/performance differences between a 7' beam and an 8' beam in the 28-30 boats listed above? What are the pro's and con's?

Dan

Cuda
07-08-2006, 12:32 PM
What are the handling/performance differences between a 7' beam and an 8' beam in the 28-30 boats listed above? What are the pro's and con's?
Dan
The seven foot beam boats are very fast for their length, but obviously have less room in them. There are a lot of them racing in the P Classes. If you just care about getting from here to there fast, they'd fit the bill. If you want to hang out on your boat once you get there, I'd go with the eight foot beam.

Team Jefe
07-10-2006, 12:30 AM
Great discussions guys, lets keep it going. Renee and I are looking hard, but unlike me most of the time, we are taking our time, to find the right boat. Mostly we have found that 28ish boats fit the single engine, under $50K, can be stored at home bill, but the ride leaves much to be desired in Galveston Bay and the GoM. the 30-32ish boats have the ride, but two motors, lots of maintenance, and hard to store.....so the saga continues

For instance, 30Y2K is not a boat for us. it is a great machine, but moves around way too much. then we found a 32 Seebold Eagle that was the nicest used boat I've ever seen, it was massive with twin 525 SC's...so its the other end of the spectrum.

So its looking more like twins, and I'm focused on small blocks...as my good buddy Trip has suggested. I've not been in a 28ZX in these waters, but I do know the 26 is too small.

Cuda the 28 Pantera has me very interested, but there are none around here...the ride is the issue especially for Renee. I found a 29 Scarab with twin small blocks in great shape....but after 5 minutes I knew the ride was not to her liking.

Basically we need the ride of a 40 footer, the speed of an STV all in a 30 foot package for cheap....yeah, I know, keep on looking.

blackhawk
07-10-2006, 12:07 PM
The Activator and Superboat are the only 7' beam boats. The Krypto and the Pantera are 8' and the AT is 8'4".

The 7' beam boats will be faster but obviously have less room. All of the boats on my list are great in rough water which is why they were on my list! :D