'75 Aquasport 170 or '81 Mako 171????

[gw204]

Well, I never thought I would be in this predicament, but I am...

Before I bought my current Aquasport 170, I was looking for a Mako 17'.  I never could find on within reasonable driving distance, so I expanded my search of other makes/models.  Shortly thereafter, I stumbled upon the Aquasport in NC and made a day trip out of picking it up.

But as luck would have it, a '81 Mako 171 just popped up less than three miles from my house.  I looked at it last night, and it would be much less of a project from my Aquasport.  It comes with a nicer trailer and '81 Merc. 115 that I suspect would run fine with a little TLD.  I could probably be on the water in less than a year whereas the Aquasport (a total project) is realistically 3+ years from getting wet....and it needs a new trailer and new power.

Anyway, I'm looking for feedback/opinions on the two boats.  I know they are extremely similar, but I just can't see to make up my mind.  LOA is the same, 2" of difference in beam, transom height is the same, the Mako is 300 lbs. heavier and is rated for like 5 more HP but the Aquasport appears to maintain more deadrise toward the bow so I suspect it might cut the chop a bit better.

I already got the OK from Mrs. GW204 to pull the trigger on the Mako if I want, but I first need to decide if it's really the right thing to do.  I really like both but I'de have to get rid of the Aquasport if I bring the Mako home....

What do you guys think? This really sucks....

[MJB]

gw204,

Well, if it were me I don't think I could wait 3 yrs to be on the water.  From what you have described, I'd pull the trigger on the Mako and never look back!!  Remember, you were originally in the market for the Mako..........

[RickK]

What on the Aquasport would take you 3 years to rebuild?  Once you're into it, it goes pretty fast if you're determined.  At least you'll know what you're gonna have when done.
You could always get the mako for the in-between time though

[gw204]

What on the Aquasport would take you 3 years to rebuild?  

Everything.  It needs a new transom, stringer work, new floor, new console, new tank, new wiring, new power, etc.     To top that all off, my third child is due on 12/5.  

I wouldn't be off the water for three years.  I still have the Grady.   :)

[greyhound16]

tough choice to be sure.

Having owned both boats over the years I can only say the 170 has the better ride and to me a better fishing layout.  but year in and year out the Mako's had better construction.  I think that means heavier :).   The quality of the 170's varied a bunch depending on the financial state of the company during the 70's thru the 80's.

If you have to sell the 170, please let me know!

[gw204]

If you have to sell the 170, please let me know!

I put it up on the Classifieds board last night...   :(

http://www.classicaquasport.com/forum/v ... php?t=2662