New 185 sport 3.0 vs 4.3

Shaun77

Shaun77

Member
Mar 23, 2012
112
Florida
Boat Info
2011 185 Sport
Engines
4.3L 190hp Alpha 1
I've been looking for a used 2008 or later 185 sport with the 4.3L. There are a few i've seen going for around 18500-22500 in Florida. I went to a local marine max and there offering NEW 2012's with the 3.0l for around $24-26k and with the 4.3L around $29K. A new 3.0 would be affordable but the 4.3 is a little over budget. My question really is does anyone know the actual top speeds that owners are getting with load and gear between the two? I'm leaning towards a used 4.3 but am wondering if I should compromise and go with a new 3.0 for the warranty and peace of mine knowing its history. Damn this boat buying indecision.
 
Pick the new one with the 4.3 , tell em to get off the price , say around 24k, if not , walk away.
 
Agree. You will want the extra juice!
 
yup 4.3 no question. if you plan on pulling any water toys or having lots of gear and people on board you'll want the extra power, and I think it will make resale a little easier for when you inevitably move up;)
 
"My boat has too much power" is not a phrase that has ever been used in boating.
 
You might get 38 mph with the 3.0 and the 4.3 will do almost 50. Just depends how you want to use the boat. I would prefer the bigger motor.
 
Did you look at Costco pricing for new boat?

I was at local dealer and they only are selling the "smaller" Sea Rays under the Costco program.
 
This question comes up as a thread regularly. Generally everyone says "get the bigger motor". Heck, anytime any asks about the boat they are about to buy, most responses are "you don't want that boat, get a bigger one". Like budget is irrelevant. Anyway, there are a few of us with the 3.0L that will post " we love our 3.0L and can do everything we want with it without issue". So, don't be afraid of having the 3.0l, but get the 4.3L so everyone can pat you on the back as to how smart you were to get the bigger motor.
 
ZZ13 said:
This question comes up as a thread regularly. Generally everyone says "get the bigger motor". Heck, anytime any asks about the boat they are about to buy, most responses are "you don't want that boat, get a bigger one". Like budget is irrelevant. Anyway, there are a few of us with the 3.0L that will post " we love our 3.0L and can do everything we want with it without issue". So, don't be afraid of having the 3.0l, but get the 4.3L so everyone can pat you on the back as to how smart you were to get the bigger motor.
Click to expand...

I also have the 3.0 in my 18 ft sea ray, it's all that my family has ever needed, we wake board and tube behind the boat often, a good 14.5 by 21 pitch stainless prop will make a world of difference over a aluminum propeller, we have run the ICW of Nc sinse 2001 and have never had a problem with our boat, happy boating
 
Mechanically you can't go wrong with either motor. Its more a matter of what you want to spend. The v6 will cost more upfront but if you plan to sell it later it will hold more value and be easier to resell. I did fine with the 3.0 in my 180 br. Just depends if 10 more mph is worth 4 grand to you.
 
All aside, these little boats are fun anyway you put it, there just plane practical 4.3 are 3.0 either way you will be happy, load the family find the nearest sand bar and just let the family rip. leisure is a part of life for those with the time and money, these little boats only take mostly time and are relitave easy on your money, but there priceless to the family

Simper Fi
 
Found a 2011 with the 4.3 for a steal and am picking it up Friday. Thanks for the posts. Patience really is a virtue!
 
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