Hi.
I'm new here and I am from The North of Sweden.
I'm about to buy a Formula boat in the near future.
My first hand choice is 242LS. But i've seen some nice looking 223:s out there to.
I need a boat that handles well in approx. 30mph even if the waves are rough.

I'd like some "fore" and "against" for these two models.

Thanks
biomech

Welcome, I do have a 242 and it is a great boat an I have been in some tough water 4 an5 footers you can`t race through them but it was ok. In a 242 you will get more weight and length than the 223 and that will give you a better ride.


Good luck

Ok TNX.
how about the hull deadrise? is it the same in both models? 24 degr?

Bio, two very different hulls. The 223 is only a 22 degree deadrise hull. Boat is faster than the 242 with equal power but you are going to get a MUCH better ride with a 242 which has a 24 degree hull. Both are heavy boats but the 242 will require more hp to get decent speed numbers but if you are looking for a better ride it is a much better choice. My Brother in law has a 223 and a 242 right now and they ride very differently. He can get a little over 60 in his 223 with a stock 330hp 7.4 merc and a 3 blade and about the same speed in the 242 with a stock 502 mag light fuel and two people. His is a mint, and I mean mint '91 low hour 242 and I am very impressed with the size and comfort of the boat

Thank You!
Based on your answer it seems like it's the 242 that is the right boat for me! I'd like a comfortable ride with decent speeds instead of a fast, bumpy ride.
I've seen 242:s with 5,7l 260hp but they must be undermotorized i suppose?! I need to look for a 242 with at least a 454 or 502?

Try to stay away from 87 which had the alpha drive. I believe in 88 they started using the Bravo drives with the 454 on the 242. I have the alpha on my 87 242 and it works fine, but not as strong as the Bravo drive. You just cant beat on it.

You can buy mine

88242ls:

I am in Kenmore. Is your boat really for sale?

lol yes it is look in SW classifieds or email me [email protected]

A little over 60??? I've got an '87 22LS repowered with a 454. I don't know what pitch my prop is, but I can only top out at about 45 mph. Any suggestions from your brother-in-law?

Note: I know this is an old post...