I was just looking at a 2003 356 with t/500 EFI's, what would the top speed be for that year of boat? How is the ride in it compared to other boats of similar mind set? What would you consider it to be relative too (ie: PQ, Formula, etc).

Thanxs for any info

I've got a 2001 356 with 500 EFI's and it runs between 74 and 75 on a really good day. I'm turing 15 1/4 x 28 labbed Bravo One's. RPM's around 5,000.

I was turning 15 1/4 x 26 labbed Bravo One's which got me 5,200+ RPM and the same top speed but, as you would expect, the cruise speed at 3,800 RPM was 2-3 MPH faster with the 28's. These numbers are GPS based.

The boat rides and handles like a dream. Since the cabin headroom starts out at 6'0", I haven't seen any boats that compares to it in the cabin area. Keep in mind Sonic is a three piece boat so it's incredibly strong and tight. Fit and finish are fabulous. Also, if you're looking to get a genset in the engine compartment, forget it. We have had good luck with a little portable generator that fits nicely under the passenger seat.

In summary, we love it!

By the way, I met the new owners of Sonic at the Jacksonville Figherfighters Poker run earlier this month. Lenny and his wife Angela seemed be great people and customer focused.

Hope this helps.

Stoker11,

thaxs for the info. I'm out kind of shopping and seeing what everyone has to offer. I want some speed when I want it but mostly looking for cabin and cockpit room and a better ride. One thing thou...I saw in a listing some where of a 356 weighing in at over 10K..is that true? Sure does seem like a lot.

Itilldo,

Maybe with a full load of fuel, water and gear. Mine weighs 8,400 dry.

FYI, we're thinking about selling ours and moving up to a 42 next year. If you're interested let me know and we can get into some more details.

You could always move into a 38 for a resonable price also...

and it runs in the low 70's as well.

John S

Heres a few more...

and all the valve train upgrades have been done to.

thanxs guys but I'm just window shoping right now. Not sure what I really want to do but I do know I need more room and a better ride from a bigger boat!!!

Pwrbt33,

Great thought! We have seen the 38 and have definately not ruled it out.

Thanks for the advice.

If any one is looking for a great used boat this one is for sale at a resonable price! The owner wants it gone !!

John S.

The 356 is a great boat but Is a " TAB DOWN BOAT " ( likes to porpise ) have several customers with them...........


the 38 is stable and just wants to run........


between the two the 38 is worth the extra money..........and have seen the boat John is talking about ........NICE boat


take the 356 for a ride in a 2ft chop you will see what I mean


with the tabs down the 356 uses more fuel then the 38 so the differance will make up for the price and you have 3ft more boat


my advice is go with the 38 ........ granted that and 2.00 will get you a cup of coffee