In a quandary

[Destroyer]

I have a bit of a problem. I'm in love with 2 different boats, and I can only afford one of them. Given the preceeding statement I'm asking for opinions... Which one of the 2 would you choose, and why? I've spoken to both owners already, and both are available, and both are for sale at the same price, so price isn't part of the equation. One is a Steiger Craft 21' and the other is the "pricey" V21' that I made a previous post about. Although I have my own opinions and I'm probably going to buy one of them I'd really like to know what others are thinking.


http://longisland.craigslist.org/boa/2662455184.html

http://newjersey.craigslist.org/boa/2631185376.html

[willy]

Tough call my friend. Both are fine boats.
The steigercraft is definetly a better built boat all around. More of a commercial style construction.
The V21 will have more room cockpit wise and I believe a slight edge in freeboard(gunnel height) but not by much.
The pilot house for me would be the game changer, a lot more practical, quiet and comfortable than the V21 canvas, especially one that high, and I like looking through glass much more than vinyl windows.
The only glitch to me is whether i want the harder maintenance of a I/O. For me personally I like it because of the enclosed transom and would deal with it.
The V21 would be the one if you want to stay outboard of course and it looks to be a sweet one.
I think it will have more comfortable seating(slightly) and a live well which I did not see on the Steiger.
Now for what I know about the steiger hulls, look for a similar ride to what you have in a V. A little more solid in a chop as far as feel and noise thru the hull but I have been told they tend to get a little squirmy in a strong following sea. They are tough hulls though, I dont think overall there will be a big difference in ride quality, neither will be cutting thru a true three foot chop. The V will be faster, probably by a good ten miles per hour. If skiing and wakeboarding is your thing it would be a better hull.
Your call buddy, both are nice boats, define your wishes and go for it.
and take me out with you!

[Hedge]

I love both options but personally I would choose the Steiger. Personally I prefer the closed cabin.

[captpete13]

The Steiger is cool but I don't know about the Volvo power. Parts are expensive and dealers are not as readily available. I guess I'm partial to the V21. Good power, good boat, nice enclosure.

[spareparts]

the Steiger is pretty cool, but figure to be ready and throw at least $2000 at that motor to get it up to shape, I'd check it over real good, I can't remember which Volvo engine is used in the 190, 4.3 maybe? Either way, a stern drive boat can have a lot of hidden issues that aren't readily seen. Make sure you get a good mechanic to check out either one regardless of which one you chose. Used to be the outboards were the cheap way to go if re-powering, I just priced a new 225 Yamaha(the old series) from my supplier, I'd have to sell it for $15,500, plus another $1000 in harness, controls, key switch panel, etc. If the current V you have fits your needs size wise, the V21 is the way to go. But if you like the idea of a closed pilot house, I'd go after the Steiger

[aussie]

i think if you tell us guys what u are going to use the boat mainly for would make it easier to give advice and what tow rig you have and were it will be stored all this makes choosing a boat easier