Sea Ray 185 v. Four Winns 180

[dallasag]

Thanks for those who chimed into my 185 with 135 hp question. I have a new dilemma.

2007 Sea Ray 185 with 135 hp Merc OR 2005 Four Winns with 190 hp Volvo. Both are same price ($14k) and both have approximately 30 hours. The Sea Ray has a factory hour meter and the Four Winns has an add on meter, and the seller stated that he can provide proof that the aftermarket hour meter was installed when be bought the boat new.

The 2005 is a little older than I wanted, but its the only 190 hp boat that I have found in my budget. What say you?

Thanks in advance.

 

[chuck1]

What say you?

Thanks in advance.

Since this is a Sea Ray forum, I think you are going to find that most would say "Sea Ray"

Second point why is it the only newer boat with a 190HP in your price range?? What will it be worth when you get ready to resell it?

 

[springer3]

Resale value is a huge factor in cost of ownership. You will have fewer problems, and the Sea Ray will need less maintenance and repair. You will enjoy greater boating pleasure in a Sea Ray while you own it. This is a no brainer, in my opinion.

 

[Dave S]

Se Ray all the way. :thumbsup:

 

[Scottzzzy]

Definately the resale is a big factor! This was the main factor behind my purchase since this was my first boat. We actually went to the dealer to buy another boat, but when I saw the Searay sitting there and we compared fit and finish I was sold. And this was comparing a NEW 07 to a used 05 Searay.

Have not looked back since!!

 

[Kameroo]

Buy a Sea Ray with a 190. The other two would be a mistake.

 

[buhuskies]

This is a "Buyers" market, not a sellers market. Keep looking and narrow your search to the 4.3 V6 and you'll be happier for it. Lots of boats on the market or coming to market just now, with the sellers thinking that boat season brings better prices. While normally true, fewer buyers equate to lower sell prices. Now that it is boating season, see if the sellers will take you on a demo cruise before deciding. Ask to see maintenance records etc before making your decision. Aim high! look for the 4.3 as a minimum (Mercruiser preferred) and remember that as a potential buyer, you are in control.

 

[Lazy Daze]

There's nothing inherently wrong with a Volvo. But if you need someone to do work on it, or even just finding parts quickly, that can be an issue. Merc parts and service is everywhere. You gotta hunt for Volvo.

The 185's hull design does very well with the 3.0L. But, side-by-side against the 4.3L, there's no comparison. The question is, will the 3.0L do what you want it to do? It doesn't matter if it's good enough/not good enough for us. You're the one paying the bill. Why don't you try to take it out? Even ski behind it.

I don't normally make it a habit to take potential buyers out skiing, but if the buyer seems reasonable and is honestly having a problem deciding, I would find a way to make it work (the closest water to us is about 40 minutes away).