Fun to drive? Allison Grand Sport vs V-King V bottom.

**Captaincj** · 10-10-2017, 11:40 PM

Anyone driven both with similar power? Yes, I am fully aware of the build quality differences! And I would only consider a V-King that had its core and transom rebuilt with modern materials. My question is the fun to drive factor.

When I watch videos of the two different hills, the Grand Sport doesn't look nearly as fun and doesn't look like it accelerates nearly as fast. I know the GS is about 50% heavier.

Any insight beyond build quality on driving characteristics and fun factor between the two?

**Da Bull** · 10-11-2017, 06:45 AM

Both boats have their pros and cons. The SS rides better in rough water but if it`s hot outside your not gonna get much fresh air dew to being tucked down in the boat. The Viking is by far more fun to drive but has that annoying hop in mid range cruising speed. Top speed is a toss up depending on rigging, driver experience and many other things.
In the end I suppose it all come down to personal preference.

DB

**XstreamVking** · 10-11-2017, 07:22 AM

Not all of the V-Kings hop. Mine has no hop anywhere. When tuned and rigged properly they are smooth runners all the way to wot.

**mikesufka** · 10-11-2017, 10:27 AM

Interesting question .............

The V-King (Viking) was my first favorite boat. I never owned one, but my dad had a Vasseret V-bottom which is similar, except for the open bow. I've also owned two Allison Grandsports and one SS.

Nothing against the Hydrostreams, but there is something about putting an Allison up on that pad that can't be beat. I'd vote Allison.

MDS

**Captaincj** · 10-11-2017, 10:33 AM

Interesting, keep them coming guys if you can.

Why would it be more fun to put an Allison up on its pad vs putting a V-King up on its pad?

I haven't driven either. I've only ever owned an HST and a 21 Skater with twin 200 mercs.

**Ziemer** · 10-11-2017, 11:16 AM

Originally Posted by Da Bull

The Viking is by far more fun to drive...

Not sure I'd agree with that... Haha...

I never had a V-king, but I did have a Vector. I know the V-king is a much better riding boat than the Vector, but I hated the ride in the Vector.

The GS is a much bigger boat, and setup with equal power, you'd be real hard pressed to get by the Allison. The Allison accelerates extremely well, has a lot more storage room, and will ride much better. Not to mention, the Allison holds it value far better than the HS. Bought mine in '01, and could get the same or more than what I paid 16 years ago.

I'm a little biased, but it would be a no brainer for me, especially if you ever have more than 2 people in the boat.

**Captaincj** · 10-11-2017, 11:21 AM

I know top end is awesome in the GS, but being 50% heavier do you really think it accelerates as well?

**Mr. Demeanor** · 10-11-2017, 11:36 AM

Originally Posted by Captaincj

I know top end is awesome in the GS, but being 50% heavier do you really think it accelerates as well?

The laws of physics do not apply to Allisons. Ask any owner

**XstreamVking** · 10-11-2017, 11:59 AM

This question is kind of like asking if a new corvette is more fun than a older classic vette. Both are great fun, just the new one cost a crap load and can be gotten turn key from the factory. The older classic vette has to be lovingly returned to it's like new state since it is maybe 30 years old. You can't go wrong with either one.

**Captaincj** · 10-11-2017, 12:06 PM

Yes and no. You can't make an old Vette anything like a new one performance wise unless you literally replace and upgrade the ENTIRE drivetrain, suspension, brakes etc... And even then, you probably won't touch the overall performance and handling of a new one.

With boats you can rig them equally and the only remaining variables seem to be hull design and weight (after you rebuild a V-King properly...), speaking ONLY from a fun to drive standpoint.

Obviously the GS will always be the better made and more comfortable boat.

Just my opinion of course.

**Captaincj** · 10-11-2017, 12:25 PM

Duplicate post...

**Capt.Insane-o** · 10-11-2017, 12:44 PM

Just a one person zoomer? V king hands down.

**pkstv** · 10-11-2017, 03:12 PM

Loved the streams in the 80's , fun to drive but the grandsport proved to be a better built boat and at 900lbs it's hard to out excellerate one with the right set up ! All composite it'll last forever !