closed cooling only matters if you run in salt, and then, only if you don't flush the motor.(and you still need to flush the exhaust) Its an extra thing on the motor to have to deal with. It will save you from having to winterize the block, butagain, you still have to do the exhaust and water lines. The extra 2 gallons to fill the block is a non issue. Smartcraft is a fancy electronic gauge that IMHO is a nice touch but adds little to the boat. The drive can be added to any Bravo boat. I ran a standard Bravo 1 with 630 HP in front of it for 5 years with zero issues. I like the idea of having all forged pieces in the Mark 4,Gen V/VI motors, and the availability of unlimited performance upgrades when/if you want to do them, that the 496 doesn't have.

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Good looking ride, but that trailer has to go. I would not trailer that boat half way across the country on it get a new one first.

I would not back it into the driveway with that trailer.

If you want a 271 on the correct trailer, with a complete history available, here is one. Has an asking price higher than the other, but it has a lot more than the other. and no, its not mine. It was sold 3 years ago.

http://www.powerboatlistings.com/view/10327

We enjoy our 2000 271 very much. Can you have this one looked at before you go out there? a survey? Maybe rent a trailer? that badboy looks ruff 4 a long haul.. good luck

heres a nice 1 picked it up last year for my brother in law very clean full tops all new .on an eagle marlin trailer .boat in my yard at this time well worth looking at /i personally service it

http://nh.craigslist.org/boa/2223682774.html

Go to www.midwestboatbrokerage.com look under pre owned, they have a 2000 with a stock 502 loaded, and a great trailer.

Check the classifieds. I believe I just saw a 271 that was just listed.