I'm looking at a 1987 28' Saber with a single 454 (HP unknown) with a 25 pitch Mirage prop and Bravo One Drive. Has performance exhaust system (Gill/IMCO) and seems completely stock. Looking from an auction and have no prior info on boat. Is probably only in the lower to mid 50's if I had to guess. I know its tough to judge without a HP rating but anyone have some guesses? Also, what are some of the things you guys would recommend for pumping up the engine with some go fast goodies. I also have access to a 502 450HP engine, what would this drive accept as far as HP goes? Thanks for any input, MIKE.

If its propped right with the 25 mirage+, it should run in the 65mph range. Keep in mind, this is assuming its spinning around 5000rpms with correct prop slip and has a 1.50 drive ratio. It would probably take forever to plane with the 3 blade prop and that heavy of a boat.

I'd say 60-65 tops. Your 502 won't hurt the outdrive, only the driver can do that

My opinion only - I don't think a 28 Saber will spin a 25" Mirage prop to the proper RPM range with a single 454 unless it is a very, very, very stout 454.

I called the factory and talked to one of the brothers. He found the spec sheet for the boat and said that was the original setup for the 454 w/ 25 Mirage 3 blade but was not sure of the HP. He also said that he believed that the exhaust system had beed changed since it left the factory.

pics pics pics where is this boat

jr mike

Is this the first one ??? All red gel ??? In Michigan ???

There was a red one out here in Connecticut for a couple of years single engine.

55-57mph

I remember a red 28 Sabre at the Metro Boat Show around 1987 or so. I was impressed with the boat, and I remember it had a big block from Baker Engineering in it. That was a long time ago and most likely everything has changed since then.