[Mariahvirgin]

Hey....all. Just wondering what should I buy? Im thinking of selling my 1996 Mariah 190 Shabah - beautiful boat with the 4.3L Merc in awesome condition. I was just wondering if anyone has advice on what to move up to ??
Thinking of going up to a 1999-2001 - 202 or Z212 or Z222 ....?? Is there really that much difference from a Z212 to Z222 ??? I'd realllly want a Z boat and with the corsa's captains call.... Any suggestions ??? Also I've noticed some with Mercruiser engines with Volvo outdrives - is that common??

Thanks ED

[ShabahZ280]

The Z series are definitely nice. Captains call is a nice option too-wish I had it! My advice to you is to take your time. Look at all the different models, and make sure it's everything you want. Personally, I'd look into the Z222, always go for the biggest boat you can afford, as it won't be long before you develop "two foot-itis", as every boater does. The Z202 won't give you much over what you're used to with the 190.

As for powerplants, Mercruiser was pretty much the standard, Volvo's were originally an option, and came with an additional cost, so finding one might be a little more tough than finding a Mercruiser. If you can find a VP engine, I'd go for it.

Good luck with the search, and keep us updated!

[Mariahvirgin]

Thanks... well guess i'll start looking prob look around for a Z 222

[Reed Hatch]

If it was me I would look at the size water I wanted to run on the most . Lake Powell 25 to 27 ft boats work great yet we live by a small lake and it still works. Big mill (you can always back out of the gas) and big gas tanks. Gas in Page is $2.75 danging Rope(on the lake) $4.10 a gallon. A good share of the boats for sale in Utah are to get a bigger one. I run a Z252 Shabah with a 454

[m&mmariah]

Hi Mariahvirgin;

I'v got a '96 Shabah 180, and I might have that "one foot itis" thing. Do you have any photos of your boat? How may hours on it, and Where are you located?

[bantamboxer]

I would def go with a Z if you can find one. I love our Z212. An extra foot might be nice, but it already won't fit in my garage lol. As long as it's got a V8 you will probably end up happy with it! Just my two cents. Good luck!

[Mariahvirgin]

Hey... First I just wanna say this is an AMAZING FORUM for Mariah's !!!! up to the moderators / administrators time effort etc and coming up with such a great forum !!! Not to be bashing new Mariah boat owners but the older boat quality and features override most new boats. I get compliments on my boat every time im out, saying "thats the cadillac of boats" , i joke around saying more like the Ferrari of boats.

Sorry for not replying etc but i'll have to get some photo's up, I have it pretty much sold it to a buddy so kinda given him first dibs on it if I find Z boat.

Thanks for all the tips, two cents etc... much appreciated ... I'm going to look around for a Z 212 or Z222 or a big bigger preferably in White with Black with a V8 for sure...and if I find one with a Corsa Captains call or if not then install them myself !!..

As far as not fitting in the garage has anyone chopped there trailer and put a swing on it ??

Thanks again !!! and hope everyones having a great boating season !!!

[dmickelson]

I have a Z222 that I would sell for $15000 no tax. I'm in WA state.