thanks for the info on the 38 donzi.
For anyone who has one, how is the ride in rough water? Boat on lake erie and she can get pretty rough sometimes.
any major problems from 98 on up.
Any major changes from 98 on up that would make a newer year better to purchase

The stepped hull started in '99 I believe. I have a 2001 and love it. It rides great in rough water. I am on Lake Michigan and have run in some pretty snotty water. I think 2000 - 2003 are all virtually the same except minor cosmetic differences (i.e. location of CD changer) Call the factory and they will tell you anything that changed year to year.

I have a 28 foot Donzi ZX and the ride in rough water is wonderful. I was on a 38ft several times and a 70mph ride in 3 foot chop is no big deal at all.

I am also in the market for a used 38. If you are concerned with performance on top, go with the stepped hull, it is rummored to provide around 7mph advantage. The stepped hulls started in 1999 like mentioned. Check out www.powerboatmag.com and look in the boat tests section for 2000, they tested the 38 daytona with 600's and they raved about it. It also earned their boat of the year award. I am searching for a 1999 or newer daytona, and look to be in one by late spring.

Good Luck
Lonestar