I do not have a Vyper, but I do have twin 496HO's in my 280SC PQ. I love those engines as they are very reliable. This is my third year of owning this boat and those engines have been trouble free, they don't sound bad either. Good luck on whatever you end up with.

Thanks for all of the responses, it is great when you can trust the feedback from OSO. There is an '03 with nice graphics, 496 ho's, but the bravo 1 outdrives. I am glad to hear the positive thoughts on the 496 ho's and it sure seems like everyone loves the Vyper, but you have to like the looks of the one you buy too.

496 has the bravo 1 X drives.....they all do, that is the paired drive. You will have no issues with them. You will not find XRs with those motors and they are not needed.

The boat you mention i believe is in KY. Appears a really nice boat with low hours. The thing I noticed is that graphic I didn't think was originally like that? Was the rest of the jagged stripes added, never saw that graphic with so many?? Also, the powerquest oval was typically more rearward than on that boat if my memory is right.

Also, that is a windshield boat, which depending on what you like can make a difference too.

Feel free to call Greg at Pier 57 and throw an offer to him, I might take it (also all the extra stuff you will get will be an added bonus)

Best of luck in your search.

Pwraddr,That is the boat in KY. Your observation about the graphics and oval is spot on, something did not seem quite right. I've always had a windshield so I guess I don't know the advantage of a windscreen. I will look at yours some more. Thanks for all the info.

Ok, reason I know is that I almost bought a 2005 Vyper with that scheme and wasn't like that boat in KY.

Let me know if I can help and good luck, it is a big decision so I understand you wanting as much info as you can get.

The one in Kentucky is sold I'm almost positive. Another OSO member was going to go look at it and was told it was sold.

The windscreen I believe looks sportier but if you are under 5-7it can be a challenge to look over. Had to get my wife a booster cushion

Here's a thread that's currently going on here about windscreens. May help in your decision making. http://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/g...ower-boat.html

Thanks again for the input guys.

Good luck!