[pfdff]

Im looking at a used chap and it is posted as a 2002 183 SSi. Did they make a 183 in the SSi or is it most likely just a SS? If it is a SSi what is the difference and what are the length and beam?

[TilliamWe]

Ok, NADA calls it an "SS". But I am not exactly sure what that means. Cause back then Chaparral's cheap line of boats were called SSe. So is an SS a cheaper line than the SSi? i don't know. But it's beam is 7'9".

[jkust]

I have a 2003 183ss. 2003 was the last year of that model and it was morphed into the identical 190SSi. Literally identical with a new name. Therefore the 183SS is identical to the 190SSI up through the 2007 model. 2008 and 2009 are now somewhat to drastically different between the two years. Just look at the 2007 website for Chaparral and you will have all the specs you need. In other words if you get a nice 2002 183ss you just got yourself the same boat as the 07 190SSI. There are a few interior changes such as the dash layout and transom walk thru. Just like a car they tend to change at least a few minor details each year until the major overhauls take place. Also, the 183 is 18'3" which is actually 20 feet with the optional swim platform. It weighs 2,900 dry and is a lot heavier than most every similar sized boat so it will take chop and ride better but will be a couple clicks slower. The 190SSI again has the same hull as the 183 but the HP was upped to a max of 270 versus the 225 rating on the 183. I wished I had the 270HP versus the 190HP I have. The Chaps will hold their value almost to the point of absurdity here in MN. I could have bought a new 08 lesser brand (but same engine) boat for the price of my 03 but it was just past the break in point. By the way did you ever buy the boat?

[gianjoe]

Are you looking at the one in Rockledge at Boater's Exchange? If so, that was my boat. The yellow one with the blue top.

Joe