Ranger 185DVS or Nitro 882 NX DC

[Jr. Dunn]

Ok guys, which is the better boat if both are setup with a Mercury XR6? They are about the same length and width from what I see. Also, the transom height on the Ranger is 23" and 20" on the Nitro. Is taller better?



Thanks for any info.



(Still trying to decide between Ranger 185, Nitro 882 or Nitro 898!)

 

[Rob LaMoy]

I haven't seen an 898 up close yet, but personally I would take the 185. Just my .02.

 

[James D.]

i would think the 882 would have more usable storage space than the ranger 185. probably wouldn't go wrong with either. might have better resale with the 185 if that is an issue. i would choose the 898 to get a 20 foot boat, and put a 200hp on it if i could. i have a 17' lx700 which i'm happy with but when you get into some big waves "size does matter" when you are in a boat, no matter what name is on the side of it.

jd

 

[Bill McElroy]

Without getting on a soapbox,...keep a couple things in mind before you buy!!...there's a LOT more to consider when buying an expensive boat than JUST the ride! (and the driver's skill and experience can lead to a lowsy or a great ride),....An educated shopper will also consider: quality, fit and finish, resale value, brand reputation as far as reliability, durability, customer service AFTER the sale, and warranty issues... The JD Powers award is a good indicator of who's leading in ALL of those categories....

Do your homework before you decide,...a boat loan is a MAJOR commitment...make sure you're happy with your decision. Have fun shopping!!

Mac

 

[James D.]

it is funny sometimes how you "hear" things and the differing opinions you can get. i've heard rangers were a great riding boat, but they are a little slower than other hulls. it is also hard to tell just by looking at on the showroom floor. if possible, take em out for a ride and see what you think. if you don't mind a used boat, there are some 901's on this board that look great too. mac is right as there are a lot of factors to consider in picking out the right boat.

jd

 

[Jr. Dunn]

Thanks for the info guys!



What about the transom height deal? Also, does a jackplate really help? I think the Nitro 882 has a 7" plate on it and not sure about the 185 Ranger.

 

[JAMES MOORE]

I had my little 16 foot Ranger for 12 years, and it still sold for over $3000.00. Now thats value. I don't know if they still build them as tough as that little boat was but a Ranger does hold its resale better than most boats.

 

[James D.]

the transom area of the ranger is already set back due to the design of the transom. i don't know if you could or would need to add an additional jackplate to set the engine back more or not. the jackplate should help performance of any boat and if it makes it jump out of the hole faster, turn better, and go faster it is a good thing. i don't think it would make much diff on the transom height as far as performance goes, especially if you have a jackplate. i'm thinkin they list that in the spec to accomodate different motors but i'm not sure. be sure and checkout the little things that can make a lot of difference such as hydraulic or no feedback steering, trailer brakes, trolling motor, depth finders, livewell pump out, cover, spare tire, etc...

 

[Bill McElroy]

Transom height will make a difference when coming down off of plane...both boats are designed to help eliminate splashback, (water coming up onto the rear deck) but it still happens...the actual design of the transom will play more of a roll there than the overall height...BUT that extra 3" could mean the difference between a royal soaking and a dry deck. Also, a little experience behind the wheel of your boat and getting to know when to give it that little throttle "goose" just as your coming down off of plane will eliminate most if not all of the splash back....but it still happens every now and then....it's NOT a big deal. The older transoms on boats made 10+yrs ago were BAD when it came to keeping water out....I've had it come up the back deck and down the back of my pants!! LOL!!

That's NOT a lot of fun when it's 50deg outside!! These new transom designs are MUCH better!!! Just my .02!!

Mac

 

[Pierre Voisine]

I just want to congratulate all who replied with honest to god good info....no bashing, no preference just really good info.

I

 

[Jr. Dunn]

I agree Pierre (about the info w/o bashing). I haven't been in here long but all I have read and seen, this is a really good bunch of guys with a lot of good tips, suggestions!

Thanks guys!

 

[Bill McElroy]

OlBass....Great pix's in your library!! Beautiful dog!!

Thanks for sharing!

Mac

 

[James D.]

nice bass too!



jd