Nothing really wrong with a Baja, but if you are trying to go fast it is best to start with a hull that was designed to go fast. Just be aware that you are going to spend north of $50K on a boat that will never be worth over $10K. The only way out is to either part it out when you are done with it or take your drivetrain and put it another hull.

This is starting to sound like I should aim a lot lower for this boat.

Nothing wrong, but the market for go-fast Bajas is rather limited.

Even if projects like this are never rational, most people would not start with a Baja, as you will get even less of your money back than with some of the builders you listed, should you sell one day.

Ok, give it to me straight, should I be looking for something more like 500+hp and a good Bravo drive keeping cost lower and be happy it floats upright and still does a respectable speed maybe 70. I'd be ok with this if you all recommended it as I am well aware of the experience and expertise on this site.

Thanks Markus, I thought Bajas had a little more clout than they do.

Yep. Find a 502 Mag and a Bravo drive and go boating

Exactly what I was starting to think. I know what the 502 is but help me out, what's the Mag? Is it Magnum?

Markus pretty much suggested this right from the start. Sorry for not getting the hint. Actually, pretty much everyone was suggesting that in a roundabout way, this is why this site is so great. No BS just good information straight forward. Now to find this setup.

Mag is just Mercury branding.

Gotcha.