z260 fuel consumption/reviews/specs

koresample · 04-14-2008, 12:28 AM

I am looking at a 1998 Z260 with the 7.4 merc/B3 combo and only 74 hrs on it. I am trying to find some reviews and specs for this boat but am coming up empty. Specifically, I am looking for GPH consumption ratings as well as the dry weight (for towing purposes. Does anyone have any of this info? Any owners of this year/model that can give me some feedback? The dealer was asking $51k CDN, then dropped it to $41K (includes trailer but has no canvas), but I have seen them on yachtworld and some private listings for about $30K US.

Mike

***mikeyt*** · 04-14-2008, 02:54 AM

I can tell you that we have a 1998 brochure showing the Z260 available to our contributing members. Click on 'Donate' above and all will be explained.

I can also tell you the dry weight is approx 6800lbs with the 7.4L. There are a few others here with that particular boat. You could try sending a PM to S.L.P. since he has a 2000 version of this boat with the same motor/outdrive combo you are looking at and he should be able to give you the answers you are seeking.

***S.L.P.*** · 04-16-2008, 12:44 AM

koresample,
mikeyt is correct, around 6800lbs. I have not yet ck'd the weight at a public scale, this spring maybe. I expect boat, trailer and 'stuff' weighs in at around 8100lbs.

As for the GPH, I try not to think about it. It might Make me wanna buy a sailboat.
When feeding the bigblock at the pump, I just smile and repeat to myself, "It coulda been twins"

S.L.P.

koresample · 04-16-2008, 03:45 AM

thanks to both for your reply's! I really like the boat, but the weight is just too much for my V8 explorer (6900 lbs max). Trailer, some fuel and leftover water would just kill it. Looks like I will have to try and find an express cruiser in the 24-25' length.

Mike

Mariah Z276 · 04-16-2008, 04:18 AM

I would buy another truck

***ShabahZ280*** · 04-16-2008, 01:21 PM

I'd suggest possibly looking at a 23-24 footer if you plan to keep your Explorer as the tow vehicle. I wouldn't look at anything larger without upgrading trucks. The Explorer's a great SUV, but it just doesn't have the wheelbase, suspension, or towing capacity for anything above that. Most trailers weigh in the neighborhood of 1400-2000lbs, Mine weighs in at 1700. Then factor in the additional weight of fuel, water, and gear, you'll max the tow vehicle out quickly.

It's a shame you don't have the means to pull the Z260, Mariah's cruisers are sweet boats! Is there a place you could have it docked or launched so you wouldn't have to tow it?