I owned a '98 24 I/O for 10 years. It started out with a 454 Mag MPI (385 HP) and then I repowered with a 496Ho (425 HP). I rarely got outrun by a similar size/power boat. My boat liked to cruise around 55-60 MPH, top speed 78ish.

I think the boat has a smaller feel than other boats the same length. Although, it was awesome in rough water for it's size. It needs to be setup right though. FULL hydraulic steering, GOOD tabs, and the right prop (I/O's seem to like 4 blades).

Dislikes.....There wasn't really anything I disliked about the boat. My wife on the other hand had a few issues. Let's face it, size matters. I'm not going to tell you that it runs as good as a 30+ boat. She was not impressed with the fly by the seat of your pants ride. That's what I really enjoyed about the boat. The other thing is the cabin. Lack of headroom was the issue there.

Good Luck!

Dave, awesome pics!

60MPH cruise all day is plenty for me :)

Excellent shots!

I don't imagine that it would compare to a 30 footer, but it still seems like a nice compromise. Agreed, hydraulic steering and some stout tabs are a must.

How fast would a 24' non-step be with one of the many 420 hp/430 tq 383 small-blocks out there? I like the idea of the smaller and lighter engine - I guess I'm different that way.

I'd say around 77 MPH. Just a little extra info to ponder, the stepped 24 w/350 MPI (300 HP) ran around 68 MPH.

That's good to know. Obviously the older non-stepped hull is a lot cheaper, which is why I based by calculations on it. Thanks!

24' Superboat
 

I talked to a guy in Cape Coral, FL the other day that had a super clean 1984 24' on a 2007 aluminum tandem trailer for sale. Had 454 with Stelling exhaust, TRS drive. Was asking $18,000 but wanted to sell. I would have made him an offer if I didn't have a 47 Fountain and a 22 Velocity for sale. Call him at 239-540-4695. Name is Tom.

Thats alot of money for an TRS boat. Very heavy and very slow. Easily 5 mph slower than a bravo. You need alot of power to make up for a transmision and weight difference .

true my friends trs SB runs 74 with a 502=575hp, to the guy looking for a sb, I'll send you a pm on one.

Your talking about "Firefly"? 3 different shades of red I believe? Mayfair steering, Stellings, TRS about 550 HP...cool boat!