Ok guys the help and enthusiasm on the Formula site is great. I am getting closer to a decision. Should I go with a 27 or 31? I am going to keep this boat for a while and build it into a faster boat. What do you guys think about lenght of boat to go with??? I f you guys hav e any you are selling that might not be posted let me know.

I am in the same situation as you. looking at both of these in the mid 80's. Missed a 311 I would have bought and looked at a 272 that needs stringer/bulk head relacement. decisions are never fun.

Brian

You are right but remeber the fun is in the end not the means.

I have owned an 89 272 with big blocks and Bravos for 10 years and an 89 311 nwith big blocks and Bravos for 11 years.No contest the 311 is the boat to get.The 272 is too tail heavy with the big blocks, the cabin, cockpit and engine compartment are way too tight.The 311 cabin and cockpit are just big enough.With the Bravos there is plenty of room under the hatch.I'm currently repowering a 93 357.My 311 will be for sale next spring.

Realize yourself that a 311 running in the mid 80's requires a lot of power.
I recently repowered my 89 311/bravo's with HP500's and it hits 73-74 when running light on load.
To see mid 80's you will need at least 700hp per side to get you there in my opinion.

311 is the way to go. i've totally regretted selling my 311 and moving to a 272 but my 272 is in mint condition so it kinda makes up for it.

311 is better ride in rough water and like the others said, is less ass heavy.

Just curious why there's no mention of a 292? My '89 292 with bravos feels less ass heavy than a 272 and should have the same speed as a 311. It has a good sized cockpit and cabin. Engine compartment is a little tight, but adequate. With a pair of 454/365's built out to 420 hp it'll run 72 in fresh water. She needs alot of tab until I get her going to keep her from porpoising, but once she's running strong I can level the tabs for a perfect attitude. You should consider the 292 as well.

awesome point

I currently have a 1987 311 with 540s 600 hp 2inch shortys i notched the transom the boat run 90.4 on gps !

I agree I had a 272 was ass heavy ,kplanes would be a must, hard to find a 272 with them, Id go for the 292 or 311