Was at the LA boat show earlier today. Fountain was represented and they were offering a loaded 07 35 Lightning with staggered 496 Mag HOs, X drives and your choice of paint for $188,000. The same boat with 525s was $230,000.

I understand the 496 boat is good to 93 MPH and the 525 boat does better than 101.

I'm considering taking the plunge - I'm actually showing mine to a friend of a friend from out of town next weekend.

Although I'd love to have the 525s, I'm partial to the 496s because of insurance and maint. costs.

Anyone out there have one of these yet? If so, how about your take on it? Thanks, Rick

couple more

Hi Rick, How is the room (leg room) behind the helm? I do not fit is the 35EX but was wondering if there is more room in the new 35 Lightning.

Do it! That is an awesome boat. Go for the 525s, they are supposed to be much better motors.

Quantify "better" in 42 thousand dollar bill increments would you?

Yea - uh huh - you must know something the rest of us dont know that makes those 525 better motors - like another 8 miles an hour for 42 grand and lets not forget about valve train overhaul and headwork that will have to be done at 200 hours. What are you running anyway?

Rick - Go for it - Either motor - they both have their great points - 496s will be easy and much less expensive to insure - and hell 93 with practically no maintenance while burning 22 gph - where can you go wrong. 525s will give you bragging rights with a 100mph top end. You lucky dog you.

93 with 496's.....how can ya beat that? Simply awesome!

Rick,
Awesome boat and with 496's running 93 you can't go wrong. There are also upgraded power packages for the 496's if you decide you want to run north of 100 mph later on.

Post some picks if you get it.

Was in one at the NY boat show and it had a lot of room,but you are taller than me I am 6". going to AC show tomorow I think they will have both an EX and the new 35 so I will let you now the difference

Hey Mike,

It didn't seem to be any different than my 96. However, I'm 6 foot even (230) and it works ok for me.

The Dealer did say the cabin was 6 inches higher but I couldn't really tell. However, I have all girls and they are happy with the current size so it isn't an issue.