Besides 3 feet, 350 lbs, more fuel. pros and cons.is a 38 deeper?

I believe in 2001 the 35 lightnings had the second generation large steps while the 38s still had the first generation small steps. Both were set up side-by-side - no stagger. The 35 was 4 or 5 mph faster because of the larger steps. The 38 is a lot better boat in rough water yet it still feels nimble like the 35. The downside is that it will take a little more power to go as fast. Both have deep cockpits compared to the ex's and fevers.

i went from a 1997 35 lightning to a 2002 38 Fever which is not the exact comparison you seek, that said, I LOVE the 38. In my case the 38 runs as fast because of the twin steps from. Where are you boating? There is a big ride difference between the 35 and the 38..If you run on big water, go with the 38.

whatever the case, best of luck,

Thanks for the reply's ! I was thinking of storing it at Havasu or lake Mead from memorial day to Labor day. ( to keep from having to tow is 5 hours each way all the time) Then after that part of the season is over, I would like to get out on the ocean w a boat that has 2 motors and some size. I am 1/2 hour from the boat lauch at oceanside harbor. I want to do the Catalina run maybe too. But the Catalina run is not that important. I would probly transport it to Newport and launch for that.

The reasons I ask are; I have a 3/4 ton 4x4 long bed Chevy ( New generation). It is rated for about 12,000 pounds. I can't figure out if i want a 35 w a steel trailer or a 38 w an aluminum trailer.. Either way . I will have one or the other. There is a nice 2004 38 for 99 grand that would be Ideal. But I think I am in the 70,000 price range. But you never know.

My 38 has the bigger steps and it is an 2001

I have friends with 35, 38, and 42. The 35 with a windscreen looks sexy in the water! I am not a Fountain guy and I will not buy one. They are fast running boats and track very well! 35 and 42 EX are my favorite

Can you give a comparison of the rides on each and what years they are?

On a 38 the hatches ( 2 of them) open like double doors.. ( to each side ) ....

35, 38 & 42 all have double hatches, I had a '99 35 & my buddy has a '97 38 Fever that I have been on many times, just like anything else size matters, 38 rides great 42 even better... the 35 has more nimble sports cars feel, 38 & 42 ride like caddys

the 35 lightnings have a single opening hatch. I think I like the cadilac ride w big motor sound.