Which is a better buy?

[Marcushos]

Looking at two jetskis hoping to buy one. Both late 80's Kawasaki standups.

1. 440 hull with 550 motor Skat Trak Impeller, New Hydroturf, Bored nozzle, L-S Scoop Intake Grate, New Battery, Finger Throttle, Zero degree flat Handlebars.

2. Straight up 550 with freshly gone through motor and rebuilt carb. Has upgraded pipe, primer, electric bilge, k&n arrestor, pole spring, westcoast intake grate and RidePlate, skat trak impeller, bars, finger throttle, new battery, decent turf.

Given that they are relatively similar in price, which is the better buy? Both look clean in photos and seem to run great but not sure about all of the add ons.

 

[Laxpro2]

#2 for sure

 

[McDog]

About the same honestly. Is one cheaper than another?

 

[Marcushos]

#2 $100 more

 

[Just4Fun]

Is ski #1's a Reed motor or piston port? If it's the reed motor definitely #1 if not than go ride/ look at both of them and make your decision..
Do not fall for the runs great on the trailer gig old kawis are known for that!

 

[Marcushos]

#1 is a piston. 87 Motor. How does the 440 hull compare to the 550?

 

[Laxpro2]

They're the same hull, the only thing different is the pump which is better on the 440 if it's still stock

 

[khaos]

GEt that 550 bro. The 440 is a great nostalgia beast and its cool ... But still, no contest! Just my 2cents

 

[AirJunky]

#2 sounds like it would be better....especially if it's a reed motor. I'd ride them both though.

 

[Kohldanielzimmer]

Hull condition is the deciding factor, imo. Look for which hull is most structurally intact and then move on to aesthetics.

 

[Rushford_Ripper]

#2, if the 440 driveline is not supported in choice #1, check bulkhead for cracking.

 

[bored&stroked]

#1 being $100 cheaper should seal the deal, I can't imagine your paying more then $5-600 to being with so that $100 is a big difference.