malibu 04 vlx vs 05 v drive..what are differences

looking a new malibu boat and what are the major differences between the 2004 vlx vs the 2005 v drive ?

i think the hull is the same as is the motor. what else is the differences. the new 2005 v drive seems to be priced a little higher.

any advice would be appreciated.

thanks,

mike

Do you mean the 2005 V-Ride? Yes the hull is the same. Basically the same boat without some bells and whistles and options. Differences are as follows:

V-Ride - 3 Piece Windshield
VLX - 1 Piece

V-Ride - Black Steering Wheel and Throttle
VLX - Chrome

V-Ride - 16 Guage Carpet
VLX - 32 guage

V-Ride - Black Rubber Rub Rail
VLX - Chrome Rub Rail

V-Ride has new graphics and upholstry design but still same quality. Also, 04 VLX comes standard with MLS, Wedge and Tower. You need to add these to the V-Ride. Still after adding all that you should still come in a few grand below what the 04 VLX was.
Check out your local Malibu dealer. Most has the new V-Rides in by now and if they still have an 04 VLX you can compare face to face.

I spoke to my local malibu dealer (Ulimate Water Sports in Sac)and he told me that the 05 v-ride came with single MLS, tower and wedge. Also the v-ride has really plain graphics they look like the DD wakesette, but the tribal graphics are optional.

www.malibuboatowners.com
We have covered this topic in great detail.
Just search when you get there.

To add, the interior vinyl pattern is differnt as well as the gel pattern is different.

The dash looked similiar to the 02 and 03 VLX.

thanks for the advice everyone... will be looking at the sanger v-215, malibu vlx(2004), malibu v-ride, 2004 mastercraft x-2.

thanks,

mike

btw,

the quality of the dealer does play a major factor in the decision.

i have found this out the last week after visiting the centurion, correct craft, and malibu dealer in san diego.

i have to give correct craft dealer in san diego the nod so far - i have to compliment them for carrying a high quality boat with a upfront, honest, and knowledgeable people.

took the time to explain, educate, and was upfront on the pricing. i wish i could extend my budget to buy one from them.

The most inportant difference to me would be the redesign of the hull. The extra 6" in length and especially the extra 5" in the beam would make the '05 a much roomier boat.

2004 VLX/2005 V-ride:
Length: 21'
Beam: 93"

20005 VLX:
Length: 21'6"
Beam: 98"