[meanstreak]

Newby here and looking to purchase a 1998 Mariah. I believe it is a Shabah but not for sure. Below are some pictures. Any input would be appreciated. The boat is excellent condition. Its a 20'. Looking at NADA I cannot tell what model # it is.

[ShabahZ280]

Welcome to the board! That's a good looking boat. It's a "Shabah" model, most likely the 202 Shabah. With the 5.0L and low hours, I'd expect to pay anywhere from about $6995 to $9000. It looks to be in great shape, and the aftermarket tower looks pretty nice on there. The prop might need to be repaired, or maybe it's just the photos. And I'm not sure what the add-on is on the outdrive, probably some wake device. At any rate it can probably be easily removed if you'd like.

For everyone else, check out the website for all the pics. What do the rest of you guys think?

[WetWilly]

Ahoy meanstreak,

I've got to agree with ShabahZ250, that's one great looking Mariah, you'd never guess it was 10yrs old from the pics! I would have a qualified Mechanic give a going over (don't forget the trailer too) and if it's as sound as it looks, I would definitely go for it!

From what I can see, It's got a Stainless Steel prop and it looks to be in good condition and the white outdrive add on looks to be a Stingray XRIII hydrofoil. Removes in about 5 minutes with a Philips screwdriver and is not supposed to leave any holes (uses a clamp mounting system) and that's a good thing.

Good luck and happy bidding,
WetWilly

[indykoch]

Yeah, it's definitely a 202 Shabah. I agree, looks like great condition. A couple things to check out, though...

The oil filter looks like it was last changed on 1-14-08 (no I'm not psychic, the date is written on the filter). Was the engine winterized for '08-'09 winter? The oil is usually changed when it's winterized. Be sure it was, or you will most likely have a cracked block being in Kansas.

Being an auction, I'm doubting you'll have the opportunity to test drive. The 5.0 carb is a decent engine, but it may be slightly underpowered (as evident of the hydrofoil) for that size boat. Depends on what you want it for (watersports, cruising, etc.) and how many people you'll have on board. It may be perfectly fine, I'm just one of those power hungry guys that NEVER wants an underpowered boat.

Overall it looks to be in excellent condition. With the economy and used boat market where they're at, I probably wouldn't bid higher than about $7000 if everything checks out. And if possible, take Willy's advice to have it surveyed before handing over the cash. Good luck and keep us posted!

[Kitto]

For what it's worth. I just purchased a '02 20ft Mariah with the 5.0 that was in awesome condition for $9,500. It doesn't have the wakeboard tower nor the depthfinder. My tandem axle trailer is in great condition with new spare and new tires. Go for it. It looks great by I agree with the others 8,000 might be where I would stop. Of course I have a little buyers remorse.