Comparing 26M, 2004 vs 2005

[cpost]

First, I'm new to sailing and this will be my first boat. A local Marina has three Macgregors for sale. They all seem to be in excelent condition and if I purchase there they will provide sailing lessons. The three they have for sale are:

2004 for 28k
2005 for 30k
2008 for 36k

They all have very similar options. Can anyone help me with the differences between the three .. is there any particular year that is better to have than the other? Do these prices seem resonable?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks


(search terms: pros & cons, vintage, comparo, comparison)

[kziadie]

The 2005 is virtually identical to the new boats except for the trailer, which is now aluminum instead of steel which is an improvement. The cabin layout of the 2004 is significantly different and there are fans of both types so you pretty much have to look at both and form your own conclusions. Obviously, condition of the boat and engine as well as engine type should be considered when deciding as well.

Kelly

[Frank C]

Search on the word comparo and read a dozen related threads. Then post any additional questions right here. The Search button is top-center of every page.

Welcome aboard~!

[Paul S]

one would think the dealer would let you on to each to see them! the 04 and 05+ are totally different as was mentioned. It is personal preference.

Doing a search here is one of the most helpful things you can do to get a baseline...in order to ask more specific questions. They are all good, just different.

[Divecoz]

My 05 is pretty well equipped and I have about $30K or so tied up in it.
But everything has gone up and your buying from a dealer.
What's on the back of each boat? (motor) What do they have for Electronics? All lines lead back ? Anchors Rope and chain? Stove ?
12 volt Fridge ?

[LOUIS B HOLUB]

I wonder if the basic NEW boat at $19,900., and then figure "add ons" would be more practical. Its beginning to appear that a good used Mac is priced at (or at least nearly as much as) a new boat in some areas.

[MARK PASSMORE]

That was the conclusion that I came to. I searched high and low for a 26M but the prices were nearly what a new one was going for. This is a good thing as far as resale goes if you already own one I guess. To really save a good chunk of change I think you have to go with something six or seven years old but even those are up there. Im glad I went with a new 26M although I don’t have some of the options that some of the used ones have. Ill still have fun equipping it over the next few years.

[They Theirs]

The Complete…Base Price…then add all the electronics, auto-pilot, entertainment, necessities….

Here’s a price calculator for a new M model…. Add the condiments of choice…. and financing provides a real benchmark.

Here is an earlier price calculator, showing the first price increase on the M model.

Base Price
Early Price… $17,990
First Raise… $18,990
# 2 Raise….. $19,990
Current Price $21,500

MacGregor 2003 on their site

Others Looking at Buying a MacGregor

[Divecoz]

We dont have an Auto-pilot but I see one in the works on this board for a decent price btw.
I/ We, have never needed or wanted one, as of yet.
But then our longest sail to date has been maybe 6 hours and then back to the slip. Not sure when you would really desire an A.P.
I, very seldom single hand , because we bought this boat so we would have yet another distraction that we both enjoy and will participate in together.
We planned for our retirement for many years and have been accruing activities we can enjoy together. Sailing makes 4 we are loking for two more maybe . . .golf and one other.

[NiceAft]

cpost,

Where in NJ are you? If you're near, I may be able to help you out with getting familiar with your potential boat?

Ray

[atzserv]

Niceaft, I am in NJ as well and have a 2006 Mac with a honda 50, Let me know when and where, I sure could use some pointers on sailing, only had the sails up 3 times and it was great but I need a ton of info on setting the sails correctly, how to tack ect. I am a beginner in the strictest sense but surely hooked on sails on boats.

[kmclemore]

Atz and Ray, drop me a line, too, if you like and I'd be happy to go along to help. I'm still in a situation where I'm unable to get my boat out, but I'd be pleased to help teach on another!

[NiceAft]

Kevin,
I'm on my out for the wedding and won't be able to respond for awhile, but if you can play hooky on Friday's, that's when I'm out on the river. The fall is windier than the summer

Atzserv,
I'm in Philly. Manasquan is a bit faaaar

Ray

[cpost]

cpost,
Where in NJ are you? If you're near, I may be able to help you out with getting familiar with your potential boat?

Ray

Hi Ray,

I'm in Morris County North Jersey. Right now I'm just trying to find a boat.

I'm looking at 2006 with low hours for 26,500 in Long Island or buying from my local guy.. the local Marina has a 2005 for 30k(like new he says) a 2004 for 28k..and a brand new 2008 for 36k. All four boats are pretty much outfitted the same way:

50hp Honda
Trailer with surge brakes
genoa with suncover
CDI FF2 furling system
mainsail cover and sides
boom vang
mast raising system
steering bar
cockpit sunshade
Alcohol stove
Main halyard led back to cockpit
2nd batter with switch
2 - 6 gallon fuel tanks

In your opinion, are these fair prices? The local Marina will also include setup/rigging and sailing lessons on Greenwood Lake. Has anyone heard anything good or bad about South Shore Marina in Greenwood Lake New Jersey?

[atzserv]

Kevin,

Sounds like a great offer, let me know what is good for you.

thanks,
Gary