Zodiac Wiking Meteor 460 or Lomac 430 OK?

iggythebrush · 22 May 2015, 13:33

Hello fellow RIBbers,
After 3 years with an ancient SIB (DSB Zephyr 605 - hypalon with inflatable keel and 25HP), I want to upgrade (a little). For a similar low price, I could get a Zodiac Wiking Meteor 460 from 1993 in good shape, or a Lomac 430 OK from around 2000. Both come without an engine, but I have a Mercury F45 ELPT which should fit either.

The main difference, as far as I can tell, is that the Lomac's tubes are Hypalon, the Zodiac is PVC which ages very well. Hypalon is preferable, due to its durability.

However, I have seen some good reviews of the Zodiac's seaworthiness, and nothing at all on the Lomac. As I want to use the boat in reasonably rough conditions (up to force 5), I wanted to ask if anyone out there in RIBland has any relevant experience they would be willing to share...

Thanks very much
Ilya

iggythebrush · 22 May 2015, 15:37

Sorry, I meant to say that PVC generally ages less well than hypalon.

Another difference is that the Zodiac seems to be able to take much more powerful engines, the Lomac is limited to 50hp. Of course, that could well be due to weight limitations rather than power - the Zodiac hails from the age of the light 2-strokes.

Any opinions appreciated, thanks
Ilya