Hey Guys, I have been struggling to come to a decision for a new boat purchase between two different boats and wanted to come to you to seek your opinions for help.

I want to buy either a new 38' Donzi ZX with all the bells and whistles including cabin headroom with 525's or a new 42' Fountain Executioner with less amenities than the Donzi (no shorepower, porta potty, ice chest, etc), with staggered 525's.

I realize that even though the Donzi has the ammenities that I like, it is a slower boat and 4 feet shorter than the Executioner... but I feel like I am caught between a rock and hard place because I certainly want the boat that will be fun and fast too.

Anxious to hear your views and suggestions. Thanks!

I realize that even though the Donzi has the ammenities that I like, it is a slower boat and 4 feet shorter than the Executioner...

Actually, they're the SAME length!

They have the same water line and I think the Donzi has been tipping the scale faster than the Fountain. Trade rags claim 89 - 90 while the Exec comes in at 86 or so. he shoepower can be gotten around by adding an aftermarket battery charger from West Marine etc. 2 hundred bucks.... The staggered motors in the Exec make that boat handle very well though. There is a lot of speed in the Exec hull if you want to power it, you don't know about the Donzi. The 42 is one of the best hulls on he market today. All that said, I think they are both great boats and you will be happy either way...

Goomba.... why a ZX.... why not a 38ZR or 43ZR......?

If I'm not mistaken the Donzi is full stagger as well...both the 38 and the 43....

Go look at both boats and test them...Then decide.

my thoughts exactly, thats like tring to decide between a Excursion or an Explorer

Both great boats. Seen them both at the boat show. Not 100% sure, but I thought I remember the Donzi was around 100K or so more $$$ than the Fountain.
Take a long hard look at both boats, compare what you're gettin for the money you're gonna spend. Look at what similar boats are selling for when they get a few years old. Just something that you may want to consider if you're thinking of selling a few years down the road.
Frank

10X, it's tough to find 2006 pricing online, but here are 2 525 powered 2005 boats, there doesn't seem to be $100 grand difference in the price....

Fountain ...
http://www.boattraderonline.com/cadd...7/76143837.htm
Donzi .....
http://adcache.boattraderonline.com/6/8/5/82426285.htm

Shogren had a 42 Executioner at the Chicago boat show, which was listed for $279K with 600s (I believe).

It depends on what type of boating you do. The taller Donzi is great for a lot of overnights and kids, as it has a ton of room. The Fountain is fine for a few overnights, but is a faster and better(?) poker run boat.

Since we have 3 kids and do few poker runs, I would get the Donzi for the extra room. With that said, I bet the Fountain would run circles around the Donzi.

Have fun with your selection. Keep us posted.