Hi, I'm going to look at a 2008 Formula 292 FasTech w 6.2 mercs. I have been shopping for bigger boats (eg 353 FasTech, Fountain 33 & 35s w 496 HOs) and wonder how the 6.2 small blocks push the 292 relative to the 496s in the 33 & 35s. Are the 6.2s a good match for the 292? Any opinions from those who own a 292 is greatly appreciated.

There are several members here that have that same combination. Seems to be a 70 MPH package with loaded cruise speeds comfortably maintained at 50-55 MPH overlong distances.

I personally think that the 292 FasTech with 6.2's is a great package for those of us that tow in that it doesn't require a dedicated tow vehicle to pull it. You can get a way with a well equipped 1/2 to SUV or Pick Up or a 3/4 ton PU if you are in a hilly area.

I second Sprinks comments.

292s are perfect size for towing. I tow mine with a 1500 GMC Sierra with no issues. I do have the 6 speed trans with external oil cooler and the performace suspension package on the truck. I actually have the 350 mag setup in mine, not the 6.2s, but i've seen 70.1 on the GPS. You get a little more out of the 6.2s, 72-73. It's a little slow out of the hole, but great mid range, will run 60-65 all day everyday. I find I cruise comfortably at 45-50 around 3300 RPM. Perfect boat for 2 or 3. 4 adults can be a little crowded, add any kids to the mix and it's tough to move around the cockpit.

I saw the boat yesterday and was very impressed with the overall quality and condition. Appears to be in excellent condition. Its a 2008 with 115 hrs sitting on a Manning trailer, fresh water only (I'm in the great lakes area). I've looked at pricing on the usual sites and the buyer seems motivated to sell asking $80 k. I'm wondering what type of hit I would take if I traded it off in a year or two for a larger Formula / Fountain. Any ideas on whether this is a good price to pay and what type of depreciation I might expect in 1 - 2 years.

Prices on the 292's are all over the place. Mine is a 2004 with the 6.2's. I paid well south of 50k with a very unique color scheme. It is loaded with options

Sounds nice and those are low hours. The price may be a bit high, but it really depends on how it is equipped. Does it have full hydraulic steering? Smartcraft? Bimini top and full enclosure? My 292 had Latham steering factory installed and it drives really nice. I have heard of complaints with stock cable steering. After owning the boat a year I had 280S K-Planes installed and they are a great upgrade over the stock tabs.

I have 6.2's and turn 28" pitch labbed Bravos a little over 5000 rpm for a best of 72.2 mph in perfect conditions. Typical is 69-70mph in the heat of the summer.

Great boat for its size, 6.2s for the most part are pretty reliable. Few little problems but no big deal, just keep in mind if you want it to go faster it will be very expensive as a lot will have to be changed. Great Lakes you are going to get banged around a lot, I ran my 292 when I had it in lake Erie and I was in the air a lot. 80k you will be way upside down if you sell in two years 62-63k tops and thats if its perfect.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]523651[/ATTACH] This will be you in the great lakes

The 292 I looked at did not have external hydraulic steering or K planes which I thought unusual because of the overall quality and speed capability of the boat. Also no smart craft. I'm thinking they could be added but would have to factor the additional cost. While I run Lake Ontario & Georgian Bay, I try to avoid the bigger waves but have been caught when the wind picks up. I would be moving up from a 272 Baja and want a twin with a windshield (wife's orders) and convenience to trailer. I have a 3/4 ton so tow vehicle not a problem. The 292 looks like a good next step, but then so does the 353. Thanks for all the advise, its great food for thought.

Since you have the tow vehicle and $80k fits in your budget maybe look for a 353 with 502s or 496 HO. Might even be able to find one with 500 EFI for the $. I went from Baja 272 to 353 and my wife is really happy with the windshield, fridge, etc.