[Leonard]

Greetings Mariah owners,

I’m new to this site, and the Mariah brand, but I’ve owned several boats in the past. I’m in the market for another one. (Used, the economy is tough around here, in Northern CA) I wasn’t even aware of Mariah boats up until a couple years ago. I’ve owned Glasspar, Sea Ray, and Cobalt. Based on what I’ve been reading around the net, and talking to friends, it seems the quality is closer to Cobalt than Sea Ray.

So I thought I’d ask for a little advice from you wise Mariah owners, as I narrow down a possible purchase. I’ve been looking at these two boats, and wonder if any of you know of any flags to watch out for. (I’ll have to drive a fair distance to look at either of them)

1. 1998 Z216 Talari, cuddy, less than 100 hours, seller says it’s in excellent condition, 5.7L Mercruiser, EFI. (I think that’s supposed to have like 260 HP, I don’t know) has walk under bimini top, and snap on cockpit cover. He said he can go as low as $8,500.00. (He wanted 12k originally, but finally lowered the price)

2. 1999 Z212 Shabah, open bow, less than 100 hours, original owner insists it’s in immaculate condition, garaged, etc. 5.0L Mercruiser, 2bbl carb, (I think 220 HP?) bimini walk under, no snap on bow, or cockpit covers. For now, he seems rigid at $9,500.00, but you never know.

Aside from pining over whether or not to get an open bow or cuddy, I’m wondering if the Z212 is a bit under powered? If there’s a Z216 owner out there, is there a step to help get up through the windshield opening. I’ve never owned a cuddy, and the pics of the Z216 have the door open. Both have seating across the back, and apparently perfect interior. I understand the stock interior is very high quality, so that’s pretty cool. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks, Leonard

[darkcalling]

Not sure if this is helpful for you but the 5.7 injected I have heard can run from the 260 you stated to 320. Also I would say the 5.0 is abit light on power imo. Though still quite common in the 19-21 foot boats.

[Leonard]

Thanks, Dark, yeah that does help. I sold my 1997 Cobalt 200 with a 5.7L carb. engine in it, a few years back. It was easily the best boat I ever had but it had just enough power with that 5.7L, and it was only 19 1/2 feet long. It was a Tahoe boat though, before I had it, and I never re-jetted, so...

[ShabahZ280]

Personally, I'd think someone that insisted on a boat's immaculate condition would have purchased bow and cockpit covers......

I say go with the Z216. Low hours, bimini & cover, plus the 5.7L. When presented with the option, ALWAYS go with the larger engine in a boat. Usually there is a flip-down stirrup mounted on the side of the drivers console to help with the step up. Here's a link to what mine looks like, you can see it flipped up on the right side of the photo.

The Mariah Owners Club - Gallery - ShabahZ250's Interior

But, remember the decision is completely up to you! Think about what style of boating you do, and what you'll primarily be using the boat for. If you've got kids and are into the watersports, tubing, skiing, etc., then I'd recommend the bowrider. You'll appreciate the extra room up front. If you're going to just haul around about 4-5 people max, and possibly have the need to stay overnight, or just would enjoy having a place to take a nap once in a while, go with the cuddy. Let us know what you decide and how it works out!

[darkcalling]

I second Shabah's thoughts there is no replacement for displacement I always say but your use for the boat is a more important concern I know that alpha leg will handle alot more pnies then the 5.0 is kicking out from experience but watch the 350 hp mark you are then pushing your luck lol.

No no I am not a gear head I uhm yeah enough said.