Bryant vs 4 WInn

[GPman]

Hello, I am considering looking at a Bryant 210 1998. wondering what the things to look for with this brand/model. I did a little snooping and it appears that they build a quality boat.
Model is the 210, the engine is a 4.3 with an alpha 2 outdrive (that I know of).

The 4 Winn i am looking at is a 2000, 215 sundowner with volvo penta. again things that i should be on the lookout for?

both are freshwater boats, for family cruising.

I'm new to the forum as a member, but have lurked around here quite a bit to pick up knowledge
upgrading from a 1989 dynasty.

Thanks

 

[JimS123]

Both are antiques. As far as old boats are concerned, its all about how well it was taken care of and how cheap you can get it for.

The 4.3 is too small for that boat, and Volvos could be a deal breaker unless you have a reliable local dealer to work on it.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Brand only matters when boats are new. Aafter that its condition....condition....condition

 

[tpenfield]

Boats don't have much in terms of brand/model specific issues, they tend to be more general and random. At 20 years of age, much of it has to do with the life that the boat has lived.

The Mercruiser would be a better option than the V-P, and the Bryant may be a bit better than a Four Winns when new.

 

[GPman]

I should clarify my OP.
the Volvo is a 5.0 with 600 hrs. condition is immaculate.
the Bryant is a 4.3 recent replacement (I have not seen in person yet).


I'm currently in a 1989 Dynasty, but in exploring some soft spots under the seats in the back, I have found it needs a complete redo of the transom, stringers, bellows, seats etc. wondering if I cut this one loose for something a bit newer, with more glass and less wood.

Bryant claims to be made without wood, and I am not sure of the 4 winns, although it sounds like (from reading another forum post) they are not wood as well (snap-in carpet, fiberglass deck)

 

[Scott Danforth]

snap in carpet doesnt mean no wood.

again, it comes down to condition.

 

[briangcc]

My '05 Four Winns was supposedly wood free. I'm not sure when they changed. They are in business so you can call them but I would suspect that you probably are looking at a boat vintage enough that it has wood stringers and transom.

As Scott's saying, given the age of boats you are considering, its going to come down to how the boat was cared for, not the name slapped on the side of it.

For me...the Bryant is underpowered and the Volvo is a non-starter as parts are very expensive and finding a marina to actually work on it is a chore.