Need help identifying Donzi 18 classic

[HandCdonzi]

I just bought a restoration project boat - an 18 classic. HIN unknown, and no markings in or on the boat. It is right side driver seat. It has a wrap around grab rail and never had a windshield. I will post some pics soon. I'm looking for help identifying the correct year and any other particulars members might know. It has a Ford 351 Windsor in it, which has been rebuilt. It has a Volvo outdrive, probably a 280 or 270 that appears to be original (no visible markings). The engine hatch opens to the port side and the frame for the rear seat is removable allowing front engine access.

If anyone is familiar with this configuration, please respond. The seller thinks it is a 1974, but there is no physical evidence to prove that.
stbd side donzi18.jpg

[jl1962]

More pictures would help.

If it was made after November of 1972, there should be a hull identification (HIN) number stamped on the transom, or sometimes under the lip of the transom.

[f_inscreenname]

I didn't think 18's had wrap around grab rails and motor hatches that opened to the side???

[mattyboy]

they normally don't have those features and usually that vintage were port helm not starboard helm. they did have hatches that opened to the side on some of the X18 more pics are needed

[HandCdonzi]

Thanks to all of you who offered comments. It's a bit of a mystery. Will post more photos shortly. The boat has been painted (Imron) possibly more than once. There is no evidence of hull numbers but I have not removed rub rail yet. Prior to purchase I spoke to Customer Service at Donzi (Chuck Wagner) who had some historical knowledge. He said it was not unusual to have no molded HIN, but a number (Cnnnnn or CXnnn) might be handwritten under the resin inside the hull or top. I've looked and found nothing so far.

Hope someone in the registry has one like this or has seen one.

Thanks much
H

[f_inscreenname]

I don't know man? First 1972 is a bad year when it comes to HIN #'s. It could be stamped in the hull on your boats drivers side, transom, up by the rub rail (not physical under it). Don't think its old enough to be written under the deck around where the gages are but it could just be a plate riveted in some place.
We really need some more pictures but things are not adding up. The cleats are wrong. The rail looks wrong where it goes in the deck by the rear seat. The wrap around rail.

[Ghost]

Title has no hull ID?

[Scott Pearson]

Need more pictures. Cockpit area would help. Might not be a Donzi...

[HandCdonzi]

What is the best for posting photos? In this thread or in the registry section?
Thanks
H

[HandCdonzi]

Title has no hull ID?

The title has a bogus HIN that dates back 30 years. I've already worked with my state DNR to change HIN to one I can find on boat or assign one by state.

[HandCdonzi]

cockpit 1 donzi18.jpgcockpit2 donzi18.jpgRear view donzi18.jpgIMG_4076.JPGIMG_4075.JPG

[HandCdonzi]

they normally don't have those features and usually that vintage were port helm not starboard helm. they did have hatches that opened to the side on some of the X18 more pics are needed

Posted some pics, will add more. You seem to be very knowledgeable and the historian for the LG club. Hope you can help.

[jl1962]

Cockpit tub looks wrong.

Also some deck details - where is the fuel fill cap?

May be a splash (copy) of an 18 hull.

[Pat McPherson]

Sorry, I don't think that is a Donzi.

[f_inscreenname]

Sorry, I don't think that is a Donzi.

Cool boat though. Donzi is only a name. If it's built well and you like it the name means nothing.
To be honest it kind of looks like a barrel back Donzi or maybe a Sprint.