Interested in buying one of these, really like the classic flat deck look with the race fairing, was wondering if others that had owned them could chime in about ride quality in rough water (lake of the ozarks) and what kinda performance they saw, also what kinda speed stock, then upgraded? Boat will be a bravo boat so 1988 or newer. Any information would be appreciated thank you!

I have looked at a few over the years and got close to pulling the trigger once.
Just like you mentioned.
Always liked the looks and style.
But sorry, no first hand experience.
Good luck shopping.

Rookie will chime in but he’d be a great one to help you out as I’m pretty certain it’s still one of his all around go to boats. I’ll tell you one thing for sure is I miss my 28 challenger super V28 like no other. No not the same but likely similar in many ways. In that size range saber was next.

Panthers always look great handling on the water in lake mi.

I have been in touch with Rookie today and he was definitely helpful and gave me some good information!! Pretty wet on trying a Panther out just looking for the right boat at this point!!

my dad had one with 420's and #4's. boat ran great. would run in the upper 70's on the right day but the hull got a little squirreley at that speed. bottom blueprinting would probably have helped it. I had one with 370's and trs drives. boat was not as fast but was a great runner. love the panthers as they are a great looking boat IMO.

Probably won’t get lucky enough to find one with #4s lol but bravos will work good!! Especially with some 2” shorties later, and I read that they are a squirrelly hull above 75mph but sounds like hydraulic steering usually fixes it!! How did they ride in rougher water?? The flat deck and race fairing wind screen look is killer that’s why I’m wanting one so much!! I like the classic look!

Neighbor used to have a 28 Challenger.
IIRC 540s.
It was way COOL

Was kinda funny when I look back my dad and I both bought new from bowers (factory) and had the most fun boating ever. After a couple years dad “thought” he was moving up to a 38 ftn and was actually sick with his decision. I completely agreed. No BS!

The cool thing is an ex employee still has the mold. Talked to him about building one not long ago!

For the scarab or challenger?!

Challenger