2001 Mastercraft Prostar 209 vs 2005 Moomba Outback

I have the option to purchase a 2001 Mastercraft Prostar 209 ($21,500) or 2005 Moomba Outback ($21,000). They both have very similar features and are in similar like new condition. They both have wakeboard towers, nice stereos, perfect interiors. They Moomba has a ballast, the Mastercraft does not. The Moomba has the 310 engine and the Mastercraft has the 351. The Moomba has 350 hours, the Mastercraft has 160 hours. I am looking for an all-around boat. My family does a little skiing and a little wake boarding. We are no experts. I'd say beginner to intermediate. And, we might want to take the boat up the St. John's River every once in awhile. Which would you pick and why?

I'd take the moomba. I would think that since it's a newer boat, if you decide down the road to get into a v-drive, the moomba would be worth slightly more since it is a newer boat.
the low hours on the mc would be something to look into. having any motorized vehicle sitting around for a long time not getting used can be harder than a vehicle with average use.
really, the service records and a "gut" feel would dictate the buying decision. if they are both private party, which one feels like it was taken better care of.

and the all-important question: which one does the 'finance committee', aka wife like :)

The wife likes them both. She likes the Moomba a bit better as far as style. I thought the MC might have better resale. And the MC is also just $20,500 but I couldn't edit my post.

Orlando - Some comparison:

Outback, 2,750 pounds, seating capacity10 people, 20’ 6” length, beam 95”, draft 22”, fuel 28 gallons

Prostar 209, weight?, seating capacity 12 people, 20' 11" length, beam 96”, draft?, fuel 35 gallons

Looks like the Prostar may be the bigger boat, but I could not find the weight or draft specs.

I have the Outback w/ factory tower and ballast. Great setup, because it does one thing real well - pull slalom - and works as a cross over for the rest of the family. My boys are beginner to intermediate boarders. We also pull tubers. Also have a boom w/ extension for barefoot which also works great for teaching.

Never owned a Mastercraft. Prior boat was a Nautique. Outback is the perfect boat for our family of five and friends. Bought it new in 2007. Starts first time every time. - Deerfield

I'd go with the Moomba, not just becasue I own an outback, but for resons mentioned above. Moomba is newer, and has been used. A 2001 MC that has seen less than 20 hours of use per year? Lack of hours are not neccasarily a good thing.

I agree with Deerfield on the OB. I've got an older one with 800 hours and it has been solid. My family was hard core skiers when I bought it and now are hard core surfers, with an occasional ski set. If I had it to do over again, I'd go with a V drive under these circumstances. Better all around family boat and a lot less hassle to get a good surf wave. Either way, you'll enjoy a Moomba.

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Originally Posted by deerfield

Orlando - Some comparison:

Prostar 209, weight?, seating capacity 12 people, 20' 11" length, beam 96”, draft?, fuel 35 gallons

Looks like the Prostar may be the bigger boat, but I could not find the weight or draft specs

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The weight is 2850 and the draft is 22". -taken from MC manual

what are YOUR personal likes/dislikes about each one after looking them over?

I like them all. It's so close that's why I posted on here. I'm a newbie to boats and want to make sure I make the best call. They all ride about the same. The 209 has a better sound system. The Moomba looks slightly better inside prob it's newer. The MC looks a little more upscale b/c the way the interior looks. The MC has better name recognition. I can't tell on the wakes because I'm not that skilled yet.

BTW, we do plan on doing a lot of tubing with the boats. Prob more than skiing or wake boarding.

If you check on the MC website, you will find out more about the 209. However, the 2 boats are pretty close in size and function. The Outback will have a better slalom ski wake and the 209 will have a better wakeboarding wake. In MC sales, the 209 was not a good boat and that is why is was only made for a few years. In truth, the 209 does nothing great. If you have a family, compare the freeboard on both. The MC will probably be a bit larger and make the St. Johns thing better.

If I were looking at both boats, condition and options would be a key for me. Also, check NADA for a price comparison.

To better help you with your answer I did some searching on the net. I see you posted this say question in several areas. Which I think is a good thing. I did notice a few things. It think the engines are the same HP. Just one person referred to size (cubic inches) and the other referred to HP. Make sure you look at who you are asking what questions. No matter what its hard not to suspect some bias or un-informed responses.

Mastercraft owners will say their boat is best.
Moomba owners will say, just as good as others but no name flashing so the price is lower.

The big thing between companies is the details in the finishing. MC and Moomba use the same engine supplier. I think most to all boats use the same company for control parts. MC might use more stainless or aluminum instead of fiberglass or plastic which makes the cost differ.

I would look at personal preferences. Each boat has lots of life yet. Colors and styling. If low hrs are important, then MC. My 03 Outback only had 85 hrs at 7 yrs old when I purchased and it has been good for me. Or if newer model has your interest, then Moomba.

For me name brand or resale was not an issue. Remember these not investment, they are B.O.A.T.s (bust out another thousand), a hobby, a recreational vehilce. They serve no pratical purpose other than enjoyment.

I would also look at the seller. Which one make me feel more comfortable and confident.

I would look at it more like a GM truck. Do I want a GMC or a Chevy. Both do the same thing with the same engine.



And to note I am Moomba Bias:cool: unless I would ever buy something different.

Is the Mastercraft carbureted? If the Moomba is fuel injected definitely go that way.

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Originally Posted by Suprahunter

Is the Mastercraft carbureted? If the Moomba is fuel injected definitely go that way.

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I think both the MCs are fuel injected. Is the 2005 Moomba Outback carbureted? I thought it was.

I think Nada values is a good starting point on negotiations with the price point. just because someone is agreeing to what you will pay does not mean you have to buy it. I think your will like what ever you get as like a couch once it is home you don't have the other to compare it too. Its a feel good thing....definitely the moomba is newer big plus , but the mc has the 350 hp engine? not sure as I'd confirm this as I am a barefooter and thats a big plus. what are the top speeds ? that will tell ya more. If its the same wot mph then I would go with the moomba, I think no matter how you cut it it will be worth more if you decide to trade it in on a newer boat down the road....jmo

I was in as similar dilemma. I had an opportunity to buy a pristine 2002 MC, fully loaded with all the bells and whistles. Beautiful boat for a fair price. Then I came across my 07 outback V. I know, not apples to apples but I have no regrets buying the newer 'value' boat for a bit more money. That 2002 is still for sale.

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Originally Posted by Replicant

I was in as similar dilemma. I had an opportunity to buy a pristine 2002 MC, fully loaded with all the bells and whistles. Beautiful boat for a fair price. Then I came across my 07 outback V. I know, not apples to apples but I have no regrets buying the newer 'value' boat for a bit more money. That 2002 is still for sale.

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I wish there was a V near the price I am looking at. I haven't found any except 2000 and '99 Malibu's with bad interiors which made the boats seem poorly taken care of.

If you want a V drive, then wait until you can find a V-drive. Don't just "settle" for something that you don't really want. The hassle of buying and selling a boat in a year or less isn't worth it.

Be patient and keep looking, you will find something that is right for you.

second that. a dd and vdrive are somewhat 2 different boats for 2 different markets.
you mentioned that you will spend most of your time tubing. guessing(and just a guess) that you will have a lot of kids on board? if that is the case, I'd hold out for the right vdrive. they will appear to have much more room and, imo, are a much more "social" boat as you don't have that engine cover in the middle of the boat.
if you are truly wanting a vdrive and buy a dd, you will kick yourself when that vdrive you wanted comes to market in a month. v's will be more money, but like max said, do it once and get what you want :)

Buying the vdrive now will be less overall than selling your ddrive and buying a vdrive in a year or 2. imo

There's a reason you found two decent DD boats and can't find a V drive one. Stay ready so when one comes up you can jump on it.

What would you guys think about a 2003 Moomba Möbius Gravity Games edition? Is that a better boat than the 2005 Moomba Outback? The outback is the plain jane version. The Möbius is direct drive. The Möbius has 500 hours on the engine, vs 340 on the Outback. Both look to be in good shape. The 2003 Möbius has the carb engine. Not sure if the 2005 is EFI or not.

I can't speak to your situation, as I don't know how much of your budget you are really prepared to spend, but when I looked, I have made the mistake before of buying something for the sake of buying and not waiting for what I REALLY wanted and would REALLY fit the end bill(how I ended up with a new '06 ninja250 for 2 months :) )...

I'd recommend:
-fuel injection. so much simpler and a reason why almost all new boats are injected and
-vdrive

unless you are a slalom skiier or have a strong need for a dd, or just don't have the extra cash, injected vdrive fits so many more needs. you say now that your primary objective is to pull a tube, heck any bayliner will do that for 1/2 the cash, so there must be some reason why you want into a comp boat, and betting once you get a taste of what they can really do, you might just find a new hobby/pasttime and be glad you didn't settle :)
either way, good luck and know that you can't go wrong with any skiers product if it's been taken care of.. ask for records.

The Indmar 340 is EFI to answer the question.

As mentioned most boats will pull a tube. The v-drive is nice for passengers not having to duck for ropes. I have a DD. I just didn't want to spend the money for a V.

The Mobius line will be more wakeboard friendly, and move into surfing easier. The Outback is more skier friendly with its smaller wakes. Depends on which you like more.

The Mobius will give you a marginally better ride in rough water.

Hoopskier, the Moomba Outback has the 310 Indmar engine. Is that EFI? The engine has 340 hours on it.

I love the feedback on a V, unfortunately it's about $5k more than I have to spend. That'd be spending about 25% more on the boat which I don't really want to do right now. If it was worth it to get an older V drive like around 99-01, then I would consider that. But, I'm not sure if that's a good idea if I stay in the Moomba line because I read some of the older models were not as quality as the more recent stuff.

too bad you are not near me(or are you, city not in sig..).

guy in eagle idaho just posted a vdrive moomba on craigslist.. specs below. boat looks nice, but color(red/white/blue) might not be for everyone. it's close to your budget..
http://boise.craigslist.org/boa/2467681275.html
$25k

the boat is in great shape
117 hours on the 350 ci 320 hp indamor motor. it has 3 ballast bags with a total 1200 lbs
wakeboard rack
bimini top
kenwood stereo with tower speakers and aplifier
dual batteries with switch
21" ft open bow
will seat 10
ice chest
wake plate(this gets really big wakes for surfing)
3 "fat" sacks that weigh 500 lbs a piece in the rear and 200 lb in the center
40 gallon tank
we can ride in it all day and only go through a half a tank
big pull from the start

The boat is great and the only reason I am selling is because I put a pool in my backyard.if you have any questions give me a call.
todd blackwell
208-608-9124

http://images.craigslist.org/3n23k63...36986f1a9d.jpg

additional note.. problem is you are trying to buy a boat mid-season. that same boat will be 3k-4k cheaper this fall if they NEED to sell it, but betting it'll be gone before the end of next week. like kane mentioned, they are around, but you have to be patient and ready to jump at the drop of a hat.. they will be all over the place in the fall tho....

That does seem like a nice boat. Not a big fan of the color but it would do. Good to know about the season. I wish I could wait but I really want to get out there now. I just moved on a Lake and want to enjoy it to the max. BTW, I'm in Orlando, Florida.

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Originally Posted by orlando moomba

Hoopskier, the Moomba Outback has the 310 Indmar engine. Is that EFI? The engine has 340 hours on it.

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Oops, mis-read it a little. Second, nice location and to be on a lake.

Its not for cetain the the 2005 Outback has EFI. I think Moomba kept the EFI as an option, and the very base models were Carb'ed. Althought I would think that a 05 model would likely have EFI, being newer, especially if it has a tower and ballast. Just like common options on a car. I have an 03 and it has EFI.

You would have to ask the owner or dealer to clarify EFI or Carb. If its posted on the web for sale, provide us with a link or pictures. The communtiy will let you know what we all think. We maybe able to tell you if its EFI or not if there is an engine picture.

They usually have an engine cover that says EFI one them or not. This pic is from an 04 boat.
http://i612.photobucket.com/albums/t...20pics/006.jpg

Here's a link to the 2005 Moomba Outback boat-
http://www.boattrader.com/listing/20...tback-98804291

Here's a link to pictures he sent me. https://picasaweb.google.com/360Degr...eat=directlink

the 2003 Moomba Möbius is carbd because I asked him.

Cant tell from the pics to be certain if its EFI or not. No engine pics. But from the options is has, ballast, newer model year and I see it has a heater. It would lead me to believe that its more likely than not that it is EFI. I would send the seller a quick email to verify.

Just noticed that the ad says State of Washington and you are in Florida. Cross country is a long way to travel for a boat.

You don't have to go that far for that one. Did you put up a "wanted" ad in the classifieds on here. Lots of guys are contemplating a new boat or a move or whatever. Sometimes the right guy can just make it happen if the timing is there.

In 03 & 05 the 310 hp carb engine was standard. EFI engines were optional both years. Mobius is a bigger boat than the Outback.

Owners manuals available here: http://moomba.com/downloads/

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Originally Posted by VA LSV

Mobius is a bigger boat than the Outback

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Not in 2005 they weren't.

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Originally Posted by kaneboats

You don't have to go that far for that one. Did you put up a "wanted" ad in the classifieds on here. Lots of guys are contemplating a new boat or a move or whatever. Sometimes the right guy can just make it happen if the timing is there.

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Yes, I posted an ad in the classifieds. Most people wanted $25k+ I found better deals on boat trader than what people were asking here. Even with shipping the boat in WA is still cheaper than what I've found closer.

I found a couple more and have corresponded with the owners and they seem legit. I want your opinion before I move forward and have them inspected.

http://www.boattrader.com/listing/20...ition-98940829

http://dallas.craigslist.org/ftw/boa/2461896247.html

Hey all, I ended up getting the 2005 Moomba Outback from Bellingham, WA. Took 5 days to get here. We've been out a few times already and we love it. It was in great shape. My friend who knows boats said mechanically it looked excellent, very clean. Cost $18,500 and shipping was another $2800 but still cheaper than what I was seeing closer.

BTW, what happened to Moomba Forums? I had wanted to post this last week but it seemed like the forums were down for a long time. I couldn't access it.

Congratulations. Looks like you did well. Now go out, have fun and don't look back.:D

Pics of my new boat:

https://picasaweb.google.com/360Degr...eat=directlink

Beautiful Boat! You are going to love it!

Peace
Darren

orlando - Looks you got a real gem. Great looking boat. Take care of it and it will give you years of enjoyment. Congratulations! - Deerfield