am looking at 2 boats of similiar price 18-22k. Both are in great shape and similiar extras/maintenance/etc. The PQ 29' has 2 454 Mags and the Wellcraft has 2 383 stroker crate motors and is 26'. Any thoughts? Top ends are similiar according to the owners(the wellcraft cruises 52mph at 3300 and tops at 70) and the powerquest is 67mph top with cruising speed similiar to the wellcraft. Any thoughts on fuel use and/or personal experience with either specific boat?

Thanks,

Year on the Scarab??? If it's a mid 80's they had issues with transom and stringer rot. I had an 85 Scarab that was only 5 years old and had to have the interior replaced as the plywood they were using at the time was not marine grade and rotted out. We also had water in the transom after only 5 years. Beautiful boats and fast but having owned both brands, would never look at an older wellcraft again. I'm not sure but I belive that issue was fairly common with the mid 80's Scarab I & II's. I'd get a moister meter for sure and check it out.

I owned a '93 29' Enticer with 454 Mags - speeds are correct. Best ever with 25" Mirage props was 72.

I should have added that the Enticer was a great boat - fuel usage was reasonable (but it is a twin engine boat...), boat handled well, OK for weekends with 2 small kids, etc. I have always thought construction quality (especially glass work) on PQ very good. Buying used watch for moisture and repair work. Also, other things being equal, I would go for the added 3' LOA - it is a worthwhile difference in ride. Good luck!

I have a '94 290 and I don't know what kind of water you will run in, But you will not beat the ride or the storage of the powerquest !!! Good luck with your purchase.