My friend was comparing it to the same size Sea Ray and went with the Chap all the way!

A former neighbor in NJ has a little one (~17 feet I think). Says he's really impressed with the quality.

Great boats have had 2 of them. Glencove Marine at Lake of the Ozarks is a dealer for Formula and Chaparral...they would be glad to discuss the diffrences between the two boats. Conceptually, the 280SS and ssi are about exact...quality wise the boats are closer than most people realize...but then the price has gotten much closer too. I think you will be real happy with your decision. The distinguising features of the Chap are: great upolstery, cockpit drainage, and integreted look.

My dad has had one for 8 years, awesome quality

Had a 196ssi w/ 5.0L efi before I bought my Baja. Boat was great. Ran 50mph, very well laid out, lots of storage, nice appointments. You'll enjoy it!

We had a 25 Sunesta 454/330 B3 that would run about 55. The fit and finish is good, and like someone else said the vinyl is very nice. It had some "bugs" at first, but they all got worked out. Enjoy