Currently own a 35 non step for the last 11 years. Great boat, solid and stable. I'm looking at upgrading though to a newer design and considering a 2000 model 38 lightning. I don't see a lot of these boats around and not a lot of people building them moderate power. 700-800hp.
Were they a poor design?
wanting to know how they ride?
How much faster with same power than my 35?
While i realize it's not a staggered twin big step, would it be considerably more efficient than my current?
Boat fresh water with trips to LOTO

Reggie always said +7 to 10% mph for the steps.

What would this hull run with 700hp a side and -2 lowers on bravo style drives?

Do you have room and associated for a 42? I don’t think that you ride and overall experience, will be that much different going from 35 straight to 38 step.

Perhaps wait it out for the right 42 to show up.

Goid advice.
I like the idea of the 38 to try and not lose the nimbleness of the 35. But it may be smart just to move straight up to a 42.

had a 35, been in a 38, huge difference two different boats

what year 38 do you have?

had a 2004 35 and have been on a 2005 38, comparing apples to oranges, and trust me I loved my 35 but there is a huge difference

Assuming you like the 38 better?
I too love my 35 but it's to the point that I either sink a bunch of money into it to update it, or use those funds to buy newer and bigger.

I was on 38 on Lake of the Ozarks and it really surprised me with the ride difference, can’t even compare the two