four winns u 17-19

I'd stay away Ken! you could buy the real thing (Donzi Classic) for close to the same $$$$ and not have to worry about resale!

I had a 22 Classic and have spent many hours in both a U17 and a U19. I've never been in an 18 Classic but I do know there are some differences. The Unlimiteds have more hook built into the hull which keeps them incredibly flat.

I have been doing a lot of research on the Classic 18. And so far I have been told you HAVE to have trim tabs on the boat. To me that is a downfall. An Unlimited rides so flat that it doesn't need trim tabs in any condition. Also, if I get a Classic with a V-8 there is no way it will have the Alpha. Bravo or nothing. The Volvo Duoprop is bulletproof! An lastly, the Unlimited is a better looking boat in my opinion. The Classic with the stubby winshield doesn't do it for me.

Keep in mind, I love Donzis. I had my 22 Classic for 5 years and loved it. And if I buy another V-bottom this year it will be a Classic 18 or an Unlimited. And so far I am leaning toward the Unlimited based on looks, better performance and a more durable drive.

And so far I have been told you HAVE to have trim tabs on the boat.

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My suggestion: I don't have tabs on my 18 and it rides great. Go drive a Donzi before you make your decision.

If you drive one with tabs, then run them all the way up and pretend that they are not there. You may be suprised. It's a well designed hull.

One thing to remember: Donzi enthusiasts are just that. Enthusiastic. And will sometimes make you feel like if you don't have K-planes, external steering and a bazillion horsepower on your 18-FOOTER (!) you are driving a pig... (No flames Donzi guys, nothing but love, but I've felt your wrath a few times myself...)

JimG

Thanks Jim, I am going to try and find one close that I can drive. I simply don't want a boat that has to have tabs and I know the Unlimited doesn't need them. I drove the blackhawk for 5 years that required constant tab changes and I want a break from that!

KG said:

has there been any bored members that have played on one of these vessels??

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I have owned several of them. I still have a 1996 U191 The run out really well. Speeds of high 60's are attainable and the 5.8 Ford seems to do the trick. This is one of my boats with a duoprop (1) FourWinns U19 Fast over the transom. - YouTube