So new question regarding a boat for 15k...

shoehorn · Newbie Joined: 08 May 2003 Posts: 4

So here's the new question: Which is better, an older inboard... or a newer i/o... The other qualifier is that I want something with an open bow. My parents are going to want to use the boat for entertaining guest and their kids... They give me a place to park it, so I can't really complain

boehnkew · Outlaw Joined: 26 Mar 2003 Posts: 112 City: Kennewick, WA

It would depend on the specific comparison, but in general I would prefer an older inboard over a newer I/O. They are generally built better, perform better, last longer and hold their value better.

That said, if your parents will be using it you might want to go with an I/O so you don't get so mad when someone else bangs it against the dock. Not that you would care less, but if they aren't familiar with it, inboards are not as easy to drive (idling to the dock).

I bought my '95 Maristar last year for $18,500. If you don't get the V-drive, you should be able to find something similar for $15k.

Good luck.

snowboardcorey · Posted: May 11, 2003 7:34 am Post subject:

I totally agree, IO's have a fairly complex lower unit, which is very costly to repair, and due to its complexity is prone to needing repair. An inboard has a much more reliable drivetrain. Also point out to your parents that if people are getting in and out of a boat it is next to impossible to get hit with the prop on an inboard, while this is not true of an IO. Moms dig safety.