Lots of them for sale but I have not found what I am after. The boat is for my 70 year dad he been boating since he was sixteen and for many years has always wanted a 25' Outlaw. This is a bucket is list thing for him he has sold his Pontoon boat and wants to get one before he's to old to boat anymore. His budget is mid to upper $20k no salt water boats and he would prefer a 496 boat but older 454 Mag motors are ok as well, would consider up to 500 hours I realize his budget puts him into late 90's early 2000 models. I have seen most of what's on powerboatlistngs, boat trader etc... just have not found the right one yet. anyone thinking of selling anything that fits that description?
Found several nice Boss models but I cant get him to consider a windshield boat.

probably could get a good deal on this one
http://www.toyflipllc.com/2000_Baja_..._263786755.veh

Ok I found a boat 2005 25' Outlaw 496 HO w/564hrs. New Sunpad and back seat upholstery nice stearo recent drive service, gimbal Bering and possible bellows. Nice trailer and can be bought for $29k.

Option 2: Donzi 26 ZX 454 Mag 296 hours very nice boat in great condition asking $32 thinking it could be bought for same $29k

What are opinions on best boat resale and for the price? Just looking for some one to back up his decision.

At the age of 70, if he always wanted a Baja, he should buy a Baja!
Not comparing the two boats, I don't think it's the issue. Price is very close and I would think the Donzi guy would bust a bit. The issue is what your dad has always liked. If the one you have found isn't quite right, hold off until you get the right boat. Baja is his first choice, don't let him take his second choice!

My thoughts......

RR

I am thinking along the same lines I was just worried about the 564 hrs. and resale on the Baja with higher hours.

Is resale really a concern? With the greatest possible respect, I don't think $1-2,000 is going to matter to your dad a few years down the track.

From my understanding, the 496 is good for a lot more than that if its been well maintained. Check maintenance records, compression test, leak down test etc and if it's not right, move on and keep looking.

564 Hours on an 11 year old boat may sound high but in 5 years time, maybe your dad will only add another
1-200 hours and for a 16 year old boat, that's not a lot.

Easy to make an argument for and against but I just think he should get his first choice. If he's always wanted a Baja, make sure he gets one!

RR

tried to PM you but your box is full

The 26 ZX is a completely different "feeling" boat. The free board is much lower and the cabin is almost useless. I'm 6'3" and I can't sit up straight on the bench. The boat feels more like you're riding ON it than IN it. You pops might feel safer in the 25OL. Maybe let him board the boats himself to be sure. It's also a stepped bottom boat (not as forgiving of rookie captains).

I agree with above, I wouldn't be scared of a 500 hour 496HO with maintenance records, many many out there with lots more running fine. Good Luck.

It's over the budget, but it says OBO....
https://baltimore.craigslist.org/boa/5659882516.html

Just a thought, im getting a new engine built and installed on my 1998 outlaw 25. Prob going to sell to get something bigger. Will be availble in 3 weeks. gm 502, 500efi valve train, m1sc procharger setup, bravo 1, 28p mercury prop. Should be good for a solid 84-87mph on the low end. Cruise all day at 65-70 loaded. Has tabs and is very nice inside and out. PM me if this is something your interested in.