Help with Buying a boat.

[stylze76]

I have the chance to buy a Sunbird Corsica 175. I'm not sure what year it is yet but as far as I can tell they were only make in 89, 90 and 91. It is in pretty good shape. OMC Cobra TKO 4 128HP. He wants $2500. What do you think? It has only been used 2 times in the last 2 years. I have read that Sunbird's aren't the best of boats but it would be my first. There isn't any soft spots on the floor and it has original carpet in pretty good shape. It also comes with a full snap on cover and the Bimini Top. A bunch of life jackets, ropes, and anchor. I couldn't find this boat in the NADA Guide.

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

The OMC Cobra is probably the biggest issue. OMC went out of business (as did Sunbird) about 11 years ago . . . parts for the engine/outdrive are scarce, etc.

The boat interior looks OK . . . even though the floor seems to be solid, take a look inside the engine compartment and see if you can find any soft or deteriorating areas in the structural areas, etc. If there seems to be 2 layers of floor to the boat, then that may be an indication of covering up a problem down below.

This could be an OK starter boat, but you should think about how you would get rid of it in a couple of years when you are ready for your next boat. If you could not sell it, or if it became 'unrepairable', would that be OK?

 

[stylze76]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

For arguments sake, let's say I can't find anything wrong with it. No soft spot, original floor with no problems and aside from parts for the engine being harder to find. Is 2500 a good price or is that to high considering everything?

 

[Levinz11]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

For arguments sake, let's say I can't find anything wrong with it. No soft spot, original floor with no problems and aside from parts for the engine being harder to find. Is 2500 a good price or is that to high considering everything?

I got the boat in my sig for $2000. This was before I knew anything about OMC or old bowriders in general. Knowing what I do now from reading these forums I would have offered a little less.

Don't get me wrong. We love the boat. After a tune-up and new alternator she is running great. I figure if I can get a few seasons out of her, I got my money's worth.

Offer $1750 and stand your ground.

 

[jestor68]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

I just looked at the NADA guide. The Sunbird boats are there. Look again.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

Sunbirds are junk and have POOR construction. I would not give $500 since the outdrive and motor are obsolete. Buyer beware

It is indeed listed on NADA

[h=1]1989 Sunbird Boat Co[/h][h=2]CORSICA 175(**)[/h]

Pricing	Suggested List Price	Low Retail	Average Retail
Base Price:	$9,199	$1,500	$1,710
Options: (add options)
TOTAL PRICE	$9,199	$1,500	$1,710
Don't make a $1,710 mistake, get a Boat History Report before you buy!

 

[stylze76]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

Yes, sunbird boats are there, but nothing for a Sunbird Corsica 175. The last year also on the Sunbird in NADA is 89 and the corsica's were made 89-91. There is no 175 listed under the 89 sunbirds.

On another note, went and looked at it again, took the engine cover off and it all looks really solid and actually really clean. Original floor is still is really good shape.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

Do you think I invented that cut and paste above :facepalm:

89 was the last year for that model and the 2.3 liter was a poor performer.

 

[stylze76]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

Sorry about that, I did eventually find it. I was mistaken. Didn't mean offend anyone. So it is not a good buy from what everyone is saying.

 

[stylze76]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

I know little to nothing about boats so when you say it is poor construction. What does that mean? I'm sorry for the dumb questions. Since that boat isn't a good buy, any recommendations for a first time boat. I have a wife and 3 daughters to fit in it. My wife want the open bow with seating and we have to fit everyone in it and maybe 1 more.

 

[truckermatt]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

Sunbirds are the old kia's cars, but in boat terms. they may have been OK when you but since they started a few steps behind in quality to start with , then 23 years later you dont have much to go with.

What is the budget you have? you want 5 people on board at once. i would get at least a 18'-20' boat. with a 4.3L motor (mercrusier or Volvo)

 

[stylze76]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

I really don't want to spend more than 2500. I don't know if that is possible for a decent boat for what we need.

 

[laserbrn]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

It can be done for that price. You'll have to look hard, do some work yourself, and you might have to wait a few months. A lot of people sell their boats at the end of the season and during the off season. Right now on CL the people seem almost delusional with their asking prices and that comes back down to planet earth in the colder months. There will always be the delusional bunch, but its crazy out there right now.

What area are you in?

 

[stylze76]

Re: Help with Buying a boat.

I've been looking on boat trader and CL and just about everywhere possible. Can't quite find the right one. I am in Southern Wisconsin.