I went to my local sonic dealer offshore performance yesterday looking at new boats. I looked at a new 26 they had in stock and liked it and checked out some used 28s they had. But here is the real question i have I can get a new sonic 26 or i can get a used 1990 35 sonic with brand new 502s,triple axle aluminum trailer, new rubrail, and the boat is owned by my boss so i know the boat and is in excellant shape. They both are gonna cost me the same amount of money. So let me know what you think. Thanks guys. Bobby

To add to Too Old, realize the additional expenses that come with a larger twin engine boat. Lots of fuel, more oil to change, another outdrive, more to clean, bigger expense in general. I am not saying larger boats are not worth it, to me they are. Consistant care, maintanance and proper operation will keep costs down. Also a 26' might seem like a good size now, but 1 yr. after I bought my 25' Checkmate I upgraded to a 31' Sonic. I love the Sonic but now I'm getting the itch for a 35' . It all depends on how and where you boat.

Good luck

I would buy the 35. Have a survey done as too old recommended. If it has been maintained and has new power it sounds like a good boat. My first question is why did it need new power? If the old motors weren't taken care of, then you can be sure the rest of the boat wasn't either. BUT, take it from someone that bought 3 new boats in 15 months (21',27',31'), its a lot cheaper to buy what you really want than it is to work your way up to what you really wanted in the first place. Good Luck and be sure to update us on your decision.

I personally would also go for the old one, but just like everyone here I love working on the boat almost as much as using it. One other thing to consider is where you are going to be boating. The Bay can make a 26 foot boat REALLY small on some days. If you want to be able to use the boat almost any day, the big one is the way to go. Of course if you plan on running up the river when it gets rough or trailering a lot then the 26 is a better choice.

Bobby

go and buy kirks boat, bigger, perfect shape, new interior, faster, and you know the motors, who built them and you have a warranty better than Mercruiser COULD EVER GIVE. and when i see you tommorrow and the next day and the next and...... i will keep telling you the same thing

Go for the 35 if the extra costs of having twin engines fits your financial situation. You will waste a lot of time and money trying to work your way up to it if you start out smaller. Also, a lot of people buy small and then have trouble selling it when they see something bigger that they want. It would seem to me that you have an advantage in buying this used boat anyway - you know the owner.