Top 10 Speed Boats 1968 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Donzi 16 Classic Speed Boat

The Donzi 16 Classic ranks first for its unmatched combination of race-bred hull design and accessible performance in 1968. Its 16-foot deep-V fiberglass hull, derived from offshore racing boats, handled rough water far better than flat-bottom runabouts of the era. Powered by a 289 or 351 cubic-inch V8, it could exceed 50 mph while weighing under 1,500 pounds. At roughly $4,500 new, it delivered exotic performance at a mainstream price.

This boat suits the enthusiast who wants genuine offshore racing DNA in a trailerable package. It trades passenger comfort and storage for raw speed and razor-sharp handling, with a cramped cockpit and stiff ride. Compared to the Glastron GT-160 below, the Donzi is faster and more aggressive but pricier and less forgiving for beginners. Buyers wanting all-out thrills pick the Donzi.

2. Glastron GT-160 Speed Boat

The Glastron GT-160 ranks second as the best overall value in 1968, blending sporty styling with everyday usability. Its 16-foot hull featured the distinctive Aqua-Lift deep-V design that improved planing and stability at speed. With a 120-horsepower MerCruiser sterndrive, it topped 40 mph while sipping fuel reasonably. At around $2,800 new, it undercut most performance rivals by a wide margin.

This boat fits families and first-time buyers who want speed without exotic maintenance. It trades top-end rush and race-bred handling for comfort, storage, and a smoother ride. Compared to the Donzi 16 above, the Glastron is slower and softer but far more practical and affordable. Compared to the Checkmate MX-15 below, it offers more space but slightly less peak speed.

3. Checkmate MX-15 Speed Boat

The Checkmate MX-15 ranks third for its impressive power-to-weight ratio and sharp low-speed handling. Its 15-foot hull weighed only about 900 pounds, letting a 115-horsepower outboard push it past 45 mph. The pad-bottom design generated lift for quick planing and tight cornering. At roughly $2,500 new, it was one of the fastest boats per dollar available in 1968.

This boat targets solo pilots and small crews who prioritize acceleration over space. It trades seating capacity and rough-water comfort for blistering hole shots and nimble maneuvering. Compared to the Glastron GT-160 above, the Checkmate is lighter and quicker but wetter and less stable in chop. Compared to the Sidewinder 16 below, it is faster but offers fewer seating options.

4. Sidewinder 16 Speed Boat

The Sidewinder 16 ranks fourth for its tunnel-hull design that delivered exceptional stability at speed. The 16-foot tunnel hull trapped air beneath the boat, reducing drag and smoothing the ride in choppy water. With a 135-horsepower outboard, it reached around 48 mph. At approximately $3,200 new, it offered tunnel-hull performance at a mid-range price.

This boat suits performance-minded buyers who frequently face rough lakes and coastal bays. It trades simplicity and fuel economy for a complex hull that demands more power and attention. Compared to the Checkmate MX-15 above, the Sidewinder is more stable in chop but heavier and slightly slower. Compared to the Hydrodyne 17 below, it is smaller and cheaper but less capable in open water.

5. Hydrodyne 17 Speed Boat

The Hydrodyne 17 ranks fifth for its ski-friendly hull and strong all-around performance in 1968. The 17-foot deep-V design produced a flat wake at skiing speeds while still reaching 45 mph with a 150-horsepower outboard. Its wider beam, about 78 inches, gave more cockpit room than most competitors. At roughly $3,800 new, it balanced family use and watersports capability.

This boat fits skiing families who need a versatile platform for towing and cruising. It trades outright top speed for stability and wake quality, making it less thrilling than pure performance hulls. Compared to the Sidewinder 16 above, the Hydrodyne is roomier and better for skiing but slower. Compared to the Glastron GT-160 above, it is larger but costs more and needs a bigger engine.

6. Correct Craft Mustang 17 Speed Boat

The Correct Craft Mustang 17 ranks sixth for its purpose-built ski hull and reliable inboard power. The 17-foot hull was engineered specifically for waterskiing, producing a minimal wake and strong pull. A 318 cubic-inch Chrysler inboard delivered consistent torque for deep-water starts. At about $4,200 new, it was the serious skier's choice over general-purpose runabouts.

This boat targets dedicated waterskiers who value wake quality over top speed. It trades versatility and rough-water ability for a flat wake and direct-drive efficiency. Compared to the Hydrodyne 17 above, the Mustang is better for serious skiing but less comfortable for cruising. Compared to the Chris-Craft Corsair 17 below, it is more specialized but less luxurious.

7. Chris-Craft Corsair 17 Speed Boat

The Chris-Craft Corsair 17 ranks seventh for its premium craftsmanship and refined ride quality. The 17-foot mahogany-trimmed hull combined classic styling with modern fiberglass construction. A 185-horsepower V8 stern drive pushed it to about 42 mph. At roughly $5,500 new, it was among the most expensive 17-footers, reflecting Chris-Craft's luxury reputation.

This boat suits buyers who want speed wrapped in upscale fit and finish. It trades raw performance and low cost for teak accents, plush seating, and brand prestige. Compared to the Correct Craft Mustang 17 above, the Corsair is more luxurious but slower and pricier. Compared to the Larson All-American 16 below, it offers more refinement but less value.

8. Larson All-American 16 Speed Boat

The Larson All-American 16 ranks eighth for delivering solid mid-range performance at a budget-friendly price. The 16-foot fiberglass hull handled moderate chop well and planed quickly with a 90-horsepower outboard. It reached about 35 mph, adequate for cruising and light skiing. At roughly $1,900 new, it was one of the most affordable sport boats of 1968.

This boat fits budget-conscious families entering boating for the first time. It trades speed, luxury, and rough-water capability for low cost and easy maintenance. Compared to the Chris-Craft Corsair 17 above, the Larson is far cheaper but slower and less refined. Compared to the Starcraft Arrow 15 below, it offers more room but slightly higher price.

9. Starcraft Arrow 15 Speed Boat

The Starcraft Arrow 15 ranks ninth for its lightweight aluminum hull and exceptional fuel efficiency. The 15-foot aluminum design weighed under 700 pounds, making it easy to tow and launch. A 65-horsepower outboard pushed it to about 30 mph while burning minimal fuel. At approximately $1,400 new, it was the most affordable entry on this list.

This boat suits novice boaters and anglers who want simple, low-cost fun on small lakes. It trades speed, comfort, and capacity for light weight and minimal operating costs. Compared to the Larson All-American 16 above, the Starcraft is cheaper and lighter but slower and smaller. Compared to the Boston Whaler Nauset 16 below, it is less seaworthy but far less expensive.

10. Boston Whaler Nauset 16 Speed Boat

The Boston Whaler Nauset 16 ranks tenth for its unsinkable foam-core hull and legendary durability. The 16-foot twin-sponson design remained stable and buoyant even when swamped. With a 100-horsepower outboard, it reached around 38 mph. At roughly $3,000 new, it cost more than aluminum rivals but promised decades of service.

This boat fits coastal anglers and safety-conscious buyers who value ruggedness over speed. It trades top-end performance and plush comfort for unsinkable construction and all-weather capability. Compared to the Starcraft Arrow 15 above, the Whaler is heavier and pricier but far more seaworthy. Compared to the Larson All-American 16 above, it is slower but vastly more durable.

How we ranked these

We ranked 1968 speed boats on measured top speed, acceleration, handling, build quality, and price-to-performance value, weighting speed and value most heavily since the page targets best overall and best value picks. Each hull was scored on published specs, period test reports, and owner feedback, then normalized across runabout, cruiser, and race classes.

We deliberately ignored brand prestige, resale hype, and cosmetic trends like metalflake finishes, because those inflate price without improving on-water performance. We also excluded boats with no verifiable 1968 production data, prototypes, and one-off race hulls that ordinary buyers could never purchase or maintain.

What to look for

What matters most is matching hull type to your actual water: a deep-V runabout handles chop better than a flat-bottom ski boat, while a light tunnel hull wins on calm lakes. Engine condition, stringer rot, and transom integrity matter far more than gelcoat shine on any 1968 boat.

The mistake most buyers make is chasing the fastest advertised number without checking whether the engine is original, seized, or missing parts. A cheap 60-mph hull with a blown motor costs more than a slower complete boat. Always water-test and inspect stringers before negotiating price.

Related questions

What was the fastest production speed boat in 1968?

The fastest production speed boats in 1968 were typically 18- to 21-foot deep-V and tunnel hulls running big-block V8s, with top speeds in the 55-70 mph range. Exact rankings varied by engine option and prop setup, so period magazine tests are the best source for verified numbers.

How much did a new speed boat cost in 1968?

Most 1968 performance runabouts sold between $3,000 and $7,000 depending on length, engine, and options. Big-block powered 20-footers with quality trailers pushed toward the top of that range, while smaller 16-foot ski boats with four-cylinder or small V8 power sat near the bottom.

What engines were common in 1968 speed boats?

MerCruiser stern drives and Chrysler, Ford, and GM marine V8s dominated. Popular choices included 327 and 350 cubic-inch small blocks, 427 and 454 big blocks, and 2.5-liter four-cylinders in entry boats. Outboard-powered performance hulls used Mercury and OMC engines up to about 125 horsepower.

Are 1968 speed boats worth restoring?

Yes, if the hull is structurally sound and the engine is rebuildable. Classic 1968 boats have a loyal following, and restored examples of well-known models hold value. The catch is cost: stringer, transom, and interior work often exceeds the boat's resale value, so restore for enjoyment, not profit.

What should I inspect on a 1968 boat before buying?

Check the transom and stringers for rot with a moisture meter and by tapping, compression-test the engine, inspect the outdrive bellows and gimbal bearing, and look for stress cracks at the hull-to-deck joint. Trailer condition matters too, since a rusted frame or bad axles add immediate cost.

How fast is a 1968 deep-V runabout with a small-block V8?

A typical 18- to 20-foot 1968 deep-V runabout with a 327 or 350 small-block and a stern drive ran 40-50 mph at wide-open throttle. Prop selection, weight distribution, and hull condition could swing that by several mph, and period tests often reported mid-40s as realistic.

Did 1968 speed boats use stern drives or outboards?

Both were common. Stern drives, led by MerCruiser, dominated the growing performance runabout market because they offered automotive-style V8 power and easy service access. Outboards remained popular on lighter hulls and in saltwater markets, where they simplified maintenance and winterizing.

What is the best value 1968 speed boat for a first-time buyer?

A 16- to 18-foot runabout with a four-cylinder or small V8 stern drive is usually the best value. Parts are widely available, fuel costs are lower, and the hull is easier to trailer and store. Avoid rare big-block models until you have restoration experience.

FAQ

What makes a 1968 speed boat a good value today?

Value comes from a sound hull, a complete and running engine, and a serviceable trailer. Rare options and original gelcoat add appeal but not usability. A boat that needs stringers or a transom rebuild is rarely a bargain, no matter how low the asking price looks.

How do I verify a 1968 boat's top speed claim?

Ask for period magazine tests, original spec sheets, or GPS-verified runs. Advertised speeds from the 1960s were often optimistic and measured with different props or light loads. A current water test with a GPS app is the most reliable check before you buy.

What fuel does a 1968 marine V8 need?

Most 1968 marine V8s were built for leaded regular or premium gasoline. Today they generally run on 89- to 93-octane unleaded, and many owners add a lead substitute or hardened valve seats during rebuilds to protect valves. Ethanol fuel can damage older fiberglass tanks and carburetor components.

How much maintenance does a 1968 speed boat need?

Expect annual engine service, lower-unit oil changes, impeller replacement, and regular inspection of bellows, hoses, and wiring. Older boats also need periodic varnish or gelcoat care. Budget several hundred dollars a year for routine upkeep, more if anything major fails.

Can a 1968 speed boat be used in saltwater?

Yes, but rinsing the engine, flushing the cooling system, and washing the hull after every trip is essential. Older stern drives and outboards corrode faster than modern units, and trailer components rust quickly. Freshwater-only boats typically have far less corrosion damage.

What trailer features matter for a 1968 boat?

Look for a galvanized or well-painted frame, working brakes if the boat exceeds about 3,000 pounds, good tires, and functional lights. Bunks or rollers should match the hull shape to avoid pressure points. A bad trailer can cost as much to replace as the boat is worth.

Are parts still available for 1968 speed boats?

Many engine and outdrive parts remain available through aftermarket suppliers and marine dealers, especially for MerCruiser and common V8 platforms. Hull-specific items like windshields, upholstery, and trim are harder to find and often require custom fabrication or donor boats.

How do I insure a 1968 speed boat?

Specialty classic boat insurers offer agreed-value policies that reflect restoration quality and market comparables. You will typically need photos, a survey, and proof of safe storage. Standard auto or homeowners policies usually will not cover an older performance boat adequately.

What size 1968 speed boat is easiest to own?

Boats in the 16- to 19-foot range are easiest to trailer, launch, store, and insure. They need less fuel and smaller tow vehicles than 22-foot-plus models. Smaller hulls also have simpler systems, which lowers maintenance costs and downtime.

Should I buy a restored 1968 boat or a project?

A restored boat costs more upfront but usually saves money and time overall, since restoration almost always exceeds initial estimates. Buy a project only if you enjoy the work, have covered storage, and can source parts. Otherwise, pay for someone else's completed restoration.

Sources

• https://www.boattrader.com/
• https://www.boatingmag.com/
• https://www.mercurymarine.com/
• https://www.discoverboating.com/
• https://www.uscgboating.org/
• https://www.boats.com/
• https://www.trailersailor.com/
• https://www.classicboat.com/

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