Let me preface this dilema by saying that I am not an absolute beginner, but I am far from a highly experienced and seasoned boater. From kindergarten level to high school grad, I'm probably about a 2nd grade boater at this point. All my experience is in a smaller single engine stern- drive boat. With that said, here's the dilema:
My wife and I are considering a new 28 foot Formula SS or BR. We will operate near the mouth of the lower Chesapeake Bay (on calmer days), and further up the tributaries on not-so-calm days.
Anyhow, we are struggling with the powerplant decision. Specifically, the boat can come with either a big single, or in addition, there are several twin small-block configurations to choose from. We have narrowed it down to either a single Volvo 8.1 Gxi-DP, or twin Volvo 5.7 Gi-DP's, each with CWC, as again, we are in salt water.
Here's the approximate variables as I remember them, which were remarkably similar..........
-With a single 420 hp Volvo 8.1 Gxi-DP engine: Dry weight approx 6200. Time to plain 4.7 sec. Time to 30mph 8.0 sec. 30 mph cruise (3000 rpm) burns 12.5 gph. Top speed is approx 52 mph.
-With twin 280 hp Volvo 5.7 Gx-DP engines: Dry weight approx 7100. Time to plain 4.5 sec. Time to 30 mph 7.9 sec. 30 mph cruise (3000 rpm) burns 14.7 gph. Top speed is approx 54 mph.
Again, as you can see, performance is quite similar.
Here's the rub...... We feel the single would be OK for our needs, but Formula tells us that less than 15% of the model we are seeking is sold in single-engine configuration. That said, I'm concerned regarding resale when we get two foot-itus should we purchase the single-engine boat.
There are several plusses and minuses regarding this decision as I see it. For example, there's the lower upfront costs of the single (about 11.5K less), along with lower fuel and maintanance costs. However, the twin always has that second engine to limp home on should one engine give out.
Another thing we are considering is the fact that almost all of the newer Formula 280's which are for sale used are twins. Is this because fuel prices are suddenly higher, and many of the twin owners are bailing out, or is this data strictly because of the lesser quantity of singles out there?
Anyhow, I'm seeking opinions as to which is the better value, and which would be easier to sell when the day comes. Obviously, the twin would cost more up front, but presumably it would be worth a little more once the time comes to sell.
Basically, considering today's fuel prices, would the lower operational costs of the single be an asset come sell time, or would it be harder to sell due to it being the less common configuration?
FYI, I expect I would keep this boat for 2 to 4 years prior to the next move.
Anxiously awaiting any and all opinions.
Thanks in advance.
JW
Chesapeake, VA
My wife and I are considering a new 28 foot Formula SS or BR. We will operate near the mouth of the lower Chesapeake Bay (on calmer days), and further up the tributaries on not-so-calm days.
Anyhow, we are struggling with the powerplant decision. Specifically, the boat can come with either a big single, or in addition, there are several twin small-block configurations to choose from. We have narrowed it down to either a single Volvo 8.1 Gxi-DP, or twin Volvo 5.7 Gi-DP's, each with CWC, as again, we are in salt water.
Here's the approximate variables as I remember them, which were remarkably similar..........
-With a single 420 hp Volvo 8.1 Gxi-DP engine: Dry weight approx 6200. Time to plain 4.7 sec. Time to 30mph 8.0 sec. 30 mph cruise (3000 rpm) burns 12.5 gph. Top speed is approx 52 mph.
-With twin 280 hp Volvo 5.7 Gx-DP engines: Dry weight approx 7100. Time to plain 4.5 sec. Time to 30 mph 7.9 sec. 30 mph cruise (3000 rpm) burns 14.7 gph. Top speed is approx 54 mph.
Again, as you can see, performance is quite similar.
Here's the rub...... We feel the single would be OK for our needs, but Formula tells us that less than 15% of the model we are seeking is sold in single-engine configuration. That said, I'm concerned regarding resale when we get two foot-itus should we purchase the single-engine boat.
There are several plusses and minuses regarding this decision as I see it. For example, there's the lower upfront costs of the single (about 11.5K less), along with lower fuel and maintanance costs. However, the twin always has that second engine to limp home on should one engine give out.
Another thing we are considering is the fact that almost all of the newer Formula 280's which are for sale used are twins. Is this because fuel prices are suddenly higher, and many of the twin owners are bailing out, or is this data strictly because of the lesser quantity of singles out there?
Anyhow, I'm seeking opinions as to which is the better value, and which would be easier to sell when the day comes. Obviously, the twin would cost more up front, but presumably it would be worth a little more once the time comes to sell.
Basically, considering today's fuel prices, would the lower operational costs of the single be an asset come sell time, or would it be harder to sell due to it being the less common configuration?
FYI, I expect I would keep this boat for 2 to 4 years prior to the next move.
Anxiously awaiting any and all opinions.
Thanks in advance.
JW
Chesapeake, VA