How fast is your boat. Hammer 34? I think 80 still isn't that bad ya it isn't no where never as fast as many and may be on the slower side as far as go fast but still faster than most boats on the market. And it's still a FOUNTAIN !! witch makes it better by default.

I have an "05 -- 42' Ex with 525's. My buddy has an '05 -- 35' Ex with the same engines. I have the newer double step bottom and he has a single step. Both are the staggered set up. He runs 88mph in perfect water and I run 85 in the same. Difference is that I can run 80 plus in most any water and he has to slow down when it gets rough. Both excellent boats. An '05 -- 35' Lightning with staggered 525's with the twin step hull will run in the low 90's. He gets a little better gas mileage. I trailer mine all the time with no problems. No substitute for HP, length, and weight. Always get the bigger boat if you can.

I'm not saying 80 is bad at all, but when you are in a 42' boat, 80 doesn't seem quite as fast as if you are in say a 29' boat. I had a 35' Ex wtih twin 496 Mag HO's and I ended up selling it because it wouldn't get past 76-78mph. I now have a 2005 35' Ex that I am doing some motor work to to get mid-80's with 525hps. As someone said earlier in this thread, nobody ever wishes they had a smaller boat, nobody ever wishes they had a slower boat either. Just saying same power, 35' is faster and if you don't need the 42 for big water, I would rather put my money towards larger hp than longer boat. Just my .02.

Much agreed though, At least we are all talking FOUNTAIN!!

You will outgrow the 35. Go with the 42 staggered. It is just as efficient, has way more room and rides like a caddy.

agree, I am spoiled now with the 42. I could not own another Fountain shorter than a 42. You can't beat the ride

I have a 38 and love it, the 35s are OK unless the water is sloppy. Raced a 35 in New York and could not keep it wide open, ran a 38 and kept it WOT all during the race. Both had 502-500s. 35 ran 103 but could not keep it there, 38 ran 95-98 and averaged more during the race and finished higher. Buy a 38 or 42. Roger