So I started a thread in the General Discussion area. I am really thinking about buying a used Center Console over the winter and getting rid of my Velocity 260. While there are many different manufactures, I am seriously leaning toward Concept. I really like the size of the cabins on the 36, 32, and 30 (older 28s, which are now the 30).

I have read that Concept doesn't use wood in it's construction. But what year did this start? With a Concept are there any areas of concern (construction wise)? If previous years used wood, were there concerns of rot? Since these are outboard boats, there is limited thru hull parts, therefore I would assume the risk of transom rot (if wood) would be minimal???

Are there any years that had more issues than others?

Also what type of speeds to these see with twin 225s and 250s? For the sack of this question, lets use the 32 and or 30. Also I know fuel economy is directly related to the tyoe of motors being used... But on the good and bad end (EFis I heard were gas hogs) what is cruise fuel usage. I don't eexpect an exact answer here, as I am asking some pretty broad questions. Just kind of curious what fuels usage would be compared to my Velocity w/496. That boat cruises at 3600 rpm and sees about 2 MPG.

ANy help is greatly appreciated.

I believe it was 2000 that concept stopped using wood. Not sure on speed, but yes, the Merc 225, and 250 EFI's are gas hogs, but last forever with just gas and oil, and will run on 87 octane. 300 Opti's would be the way to go, but of course will cost more upfront, and I believe require 92 octane. The 250's can be easily modified to make more power(Shaun Torrente Racing, or Simon/Dave Bush racing), but will eat more fuel, and require an octane increase.