Scarab Viking

Yes, I know the Pantera is probably a bit better in the rough, but is there a huge difference? I'm looking at two boats for sale and the Formula is half the asking price of the Pantera. Just wondering if the Pantera is worth twice as much?

I value rough water handling most of all, and I know there are plenty of other boats that would be good too, just wondering about the difference between these two particular models.

SecondWind

From what I've read they are both very stout rough water boats for their size.

scarabman

Dont know much about the 272 handling, but if you ever watched Jo race, there is no question about the 28's rough water abilities. That said, there is the law of "diminishing returns" on money spent, so depending on your real world use, the Formula might get the job done.

Scarab Viking

That's what I'm thinking too, and the question is how much of a difference is there between these two hulls? Can a Formula be modified to perform as good as a Pantera? (By enforcement of stringer system, engine mounts, etc)

TomZ

Totally different boats.

The Formula - Good boat but comfort is the emphasis. Big block powered will be seriously butt heavy but run well upstairs - the small block boats are more nimble and user friendly. Rot is a big deal with these so if you go that route make sure to comb over it really well - transom, stringers (especially the center stringer), fore and aft gas tank bulkheads, cabin floor. And then comb over it again!

The Pantera - Built to be punished in the rough. It will be more of a barebones ride but that's what it's meant to be. Again, transom and stringers - will depend on age. I'm sure you can find lots of footage on You Tube of the Pantera tearing it up.

Both boats have their roots in the 27 Magnum.

Really no comparison here - if rough water capability is the first and foremost consideration: Pantera.

TomZ

What year is the Pantera? Single or twins?

Scarab Viking

1996 with a single 540ci/550 HP.

TexomaPowerboater

You need to list more info about the specific boats you are shopping. Each one, under different circumstances, could be better than the other.

Rough water handling is great, but if you think can buy a pantera and go run hard in rough water and nothing will break then think again. They all break in rough water, best to not tear up your stuff if you don't want to sit on the shoreline. I'm not really a fan of bigger single engine boats as they seem to have more drive problems and motor is not real reliable because they need bigger power to move them to a decent speed and they run at a higher RPM. It just seems like more trouble than it's worth and not sure the cost is any lower over time.

TomZ

I wouldn’t consider the Formulas.

Griff

My Pantera would take whatever rough water you would throw at it. No creaks, no rattles and solid as a rock. As far as breaking stuff, my drive had 250hrs on it when I sold the boat behind 550+ hp.