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1997 Chaparral 180LE Photos
1997 Chaparral 180LE Test Details
| Category | Bowrider |
| Length | 18ft / 5.49 m |
| Beam | 7ft / 2.13 m |
| Engine Model | Volvo Penta 3.0GS 3.0-litre |
| Fuel Capacity | 13 gal |
| Hull | Deep V |
| Weight | 2,100 lbs |
| Dealers | Contact Chaparral Boats Dealers |
| Buyers Guides | Search For Chaparral Boats Buyers Guides |
| Boats For Sale | Search For Chaparral Boats For Sale |
1997 Chaparral 180LE Description
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By: Matt SpencerWere all familiar with the idiom needle in a haystack. When youre a young family shopping for your first boat, it can really feel as if you are searching for that needle especially when it is a bowrider in the 18- to 20-foot range.
The market is flooded with boats of this description in all different shapes, sizes, colours and qualities. So how do you find that one thats right for your family? A good way to start narrowing down your search is looking for manufacturers with a trusted name in the industry. Thats how we found this 1997 Chaparral 180 LE.
With over 40 years as a successful boat builder,Chaparral brings quality and design to every boat they build. So when you find one on the market, it is usually because the previous owners are upgrading to a bigger Chapy.
I was impressed with the 180 LE as soon as I approached it at the dock. Uncovering the newly redone canvas, the boat immediately felt bigger than its 18 feet due to a relatively large beam.The sun pad engine compartment steps down to a full-width aft bench seat. Two captains chairs rest at each side and the bow has comfortable lounging seats to port and starboard.
Thanks in large part to the new canvas, the white upholstery with burgundy trim is still in great shape with little sign of wear and almost no UV fading. There is also no mould to be found on any of the seats or even in the creases where water usually loves to collect.
Although the carpet looks experienced, this sends a good message because it means the previous owners must have really enjoyed spending time in the boat. Speaking of the carpet, theres a large, in-floor storage compartment thats big enough for an anchor and rode as well as paddles and other safety gear.
The ample seven-foot beam carries forward well past the curved windshield into the bow seating area.Chaparral has done a great job stylishly incorporating the wide forward beam into a rounded seating area with storage below for more gear and grab handles on each side for security.
At the helm, the gauges are nicely laid out under a grey overhang,which offers some shade so you can still see them on sunnier days. Below are the four system switches, while the ignition and cup colder are found in front of the left hand. On the helm, a Humminbird depth finder has also been installed a great feature for new boaters. Among the list of aftermarket features is a VHF radio, installed under the glove compartment in the passenger console, and an upgraded Clarion marine CD player. Features like this are a major bonus,making the boat ready to enjoy from the moment of sale.
Offered with the choice of Mercury or Volvo power under the hatch, this model of the 180 LE came equipped with the 3.0-litreVolvo Penta GS producing 135 hp. The engine looked in great shape and appeared to have been serviced routinely. Spark plugs, hoses and belts all showed little signs of wear and theVolvo outdrive had no corrosion or signs of damage.
Out on the water, this boat carried on performing bigger than its 18 feet, handling confidently and turning strong and sharp.The wide beam helped give some extra stability. The feeling of security the 180 LE offers will be especially appreciated by families with young kids.
In time trials, acceleration was what you would expect from an older IO. Although it didnt jump out of the water, it still sprang from 0 to 20 in 5.1 seconds and was on plane in just 3.6 seconds. Thats more than good enough to pull a skier or a couple of tubers with a boat full of kids. For slow cruises, the 180 LE settled on plane nicely at 18 mph with little bow rise to get there.
Looking for your first bowrider can be quite a challenge, so be prepared to take your time and search carefully.With some research and a little luck, youll be able to find a great boat to share with the family, one like the 180 LE the proverbial needle in a haystack.
1997 Chaparral 180LE Test Specifications
POWER/PERFORMANCE
Test boat engine: Volvo Penta 3.0GS
3.0-litre, 135 hp, four stroke with Volvo outdrive
CRUISING SPEED (rpm/mph)
2500 / 18.3 ; 3000 / 25.8 ; 3500 / 32.8 ; 4000 / 35.4
TIME ON PLANE
3.6 seconds
TOP SPEED (rpm/mph)
4400 / 37.8
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