Hello. I'm new to the forum and am looking for your wisdom to help me make an informed decision. I'm looking to upgrade from a Baja and have been considering the new 33 lightning. However there are some smoking deals on 35s with 525s. Aside from speed, how would you rate them. Any comments on real world experience would be greatly appreciated.

Get the 35. The 33's appear to be a flop for Fountain although they did bring them to market at the worst time. Haven't actually seen anyone buy one and they are littering dealers lots all over the place.

The 35 is proven and you can't go wrong with a 525 boat. Just check the motors over. The CMI's have been prone to leaking.

Would go with the 35 if you could swing it.

35 all the way!!!!

From motors forward are the same except for a pump out head

The big thing is full stagered, blue motors, and XR drives.

Get the 35, I know I would love one.

If you want to go slower in a similar boat... get the 33.
Speed need? Better stuff? get the 35.
Carder

35 no debating.

I have a 35 and I really love it, but if I were boating on small lakes or rivers I would look at a 33. I think they did a real nice job on that hull as a replacement for the 32. It's a real nice looking boat. I say drive both and buy the one you feel will work for your boating style, bigger is not always better.

Can you get the 33 with 525's?

I'd imagine fountain will build about anything you ask for @ the moment if you got the $$$$$ ready