Originally Posted by
87SunSportMikeyD
The Mariahs are nice boats for cruising, however they do not have the deep-vee that the SunSports have. They are rougher riding in chop, and they do have the lower freeboard that you mentioned. This is not to say you couldn't put a couple sacs in it and wakeboard or surf, but you will be working for a wave/wake that is enjoyable. With the SunSport you should have more wake/wave potential.
open - closed
SunSport - Maurauder
Saltare - Pirata
Mariah - Bravura?
Conbrio - Comp
If you are a crossover slalom/wakeboarder, this boat could work well for you. It should have a great slalom wake at faster speed, unlike the SunSport slalom wake which is still pretty big. However if you wake enough where you would want to add ballast or a tower, I would keep looking for the SunSport.
If I remember correctly the PS190 is one of the best slalom boats ever? The Comp would take that title for Supra, but the Mariah should have a great wake too.
You should have plenty of power with the 240hp 351. Most modern (newer) boats have a 380hp GT40 (plz correct me if I mis-stated anything above!).