You are correct, the 268 was made in 2000 and 2001. It was built as an entry level, budget friendly option for the MCC line, for those that didn't want to look into the Z260, Z280, and Z308. (Much like the 18' and 20' Diablo models in the bowriders.) The model year 2000 base price of a 268 with the standard 5.7L engine was $58,290. The base price of the Z260 with the same engine was $69,660. But don't discount the 268 just due to it's price, since Mariah's "basic" features and construction methods were still light years better than the majority of the competitor boats at that time.
The 7.4L power plant in the 268 will be perfect, and you'll likely see speeds in the upper 30's to possibly even low 40's. I've got the 7.4L in my Z280 and even equipped with a 300+lb generator, it feels like a great engine, I can imagine with the lower weight of the 268, the 7.4L would be wonderful, after all, that is an upgraded engine from the base 5.7L.
Thoughts on the model? I've never physically been in one to see for myself, but it appears to be an good layout. Fit and finish wise, the wood interior appointments look really nice, and the fabrics and vinyl they used look really good. Top deck layout is good, and the lines and the exterior look are really good.
As for the systems onboard, I'm not sure what this specific boat is equipped with, but we have a huge knowledge base right here on the forum, by both our contributor section, and this site is full of helpful people willing to answer any questions you may have about any of the specific systems.
268 Cabin Cruiser
