Top 10 Speed Boats 1964 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. 1964 Chris-Craft Super Sport 20

The 1964 Chris-Craft Super Sport 20 ranks first for its combination of mahogany-planked hull construction, a 283-cubic-inch V8 producing 185 horsepower, and a top speed near 40 mph. Its hand-fitted Philippine mahogany hull with ten coats of varnish set the era's benchmark for runabout finish. At roughly $5,000 new, it was the most complete American speed boat of 1964.

This boat suits collectors who want a genuine wooden runabout with documented Chris-Craft lineage and strong resale demand. It trades fuel economy and low maintenance for presence and appreciable value, requiring constant varnish care and dry storage. Against the Century Coronado below it, the Chris-Craft is heavier and slower but far better supported by parts suppliers and clubs.

2. 1964 Century Coronado 21

The 1964 Century Coronado ranks second on the strength of its 300-horsepower Chrysler V8 option, which pushed the 21-foot hull to roughly 45 mph. Its distinctive hardtop with sliding sunroof and wraparound windshield made it one of the most recognizable performance runabouts of the year. Century's laminated hull construction resisted the hull flex common in cheaper rivals.

This boat is for buyers who want more outright speed than the Chris-Craft Super Sport but still demand wooden-boat character. It gives up some of the Chris-Craft's resale stability and club support in exchange for a stiffer, faster hull. Compared with the Glaspar Avalon below, the Coronado is heavier, thirstier, and far more expensive to restore.

3. 1964 Glaspar Avalon 17

The 1964 Glaspar Avalon 17 ranks third because its fiberglass hull delivered wooden-boat performance with almost none of the upkeep. Powered by a 120-horsepower MerCruiser sterndrive, it reached about 35 mph while weighing roughly 1,600 pounds. Its molded hull and vinyl interior meant no varnishing, no caulking, and no rot. At around $2,800 new, it undercut every wooden runabout in its class.

This boat is for the owner who wants to use the boat weekly rather than maintain it weekly. It trades the warmth and appreciation of mahogany for durability and low cost of ownership. Against the Century Coronado above it, the Avalon is slower and less glamorous but far cheaper to run and restore today.

4. 1964 Boston Whaler Nauset 16

The 1964 Boston Whaler Nauset 16 ranks fourth for its unsinkable foam-filled hull, a genuine engineering first that made it the safest small speed boat of the year. With a 75-horsepower outboard it ran about 32 mph, and its 16-foot, 7-inch hull weighed only around 500 pounds. The twin sponson design gave exceptional stability at rest and on plane.

This boat suits anglers and families who value safety and simplicity over glamour. It trades top-end speed and cushioned comfort for near-indestructibility and minimal maintenance. Compared with the Glaspar Avalon above, the Whaler is slower and rougher riding but holds its value better and can never sink.

5. 1964 Donzi 16 Sportman

The 1964 Donzi 16 Sportman ranks fifth because it brought race-boat handling to a production hull, with a deep-V bottom that cut through chop far better than the flat-bottom runabouts of the day. A 289-cubic-inch Ford V8 produced 200 horsepower and pushed the 16-footer past 50 mph. Its lightweight layup and low profile made it one of the quickest boats of 1964.

This boat is for the performance-focused driver who wants genuine offshore capability in a small package. It trades seating capacity and ride comfort for speed and cornering grip, and the ride is wet and stiff in rough water. Against the Boston Whaler Nauset above, the Donzi is dramatically faster but far less forgiving and much thirstier.

6. 1964 Hydrodyne Ski Craft 17

The 1964 Hydrodyne Ski Craft 17 ranks sixth for its tunnel-hull design, which produced a flat, soft wake that made it a favorite among competitive water skiers. A 140-horsepower inboard engine gave it roughly 38 mph and strong pulling power for slalom starts. Its 17-foot hull and reinforced tow pylon were purpose-built for tournament use.

This boat is for serious skiers who prioritize wake quality and pulling torque over top speed. It trades rough-water comfort and general-purpose utility for a specialized ski platform with limited seating. Compared with the Donzi 16 Sportman above, the Hydrodyne is slower and less agile but far better at towing and much easier to control at ski speeds.

7. 1964 Larson All American 16

The 1964 Larson All American 16 ranks seventh because its fiberglass hull and vinyl-covered deck delivered dependable family boating at roughly $2,200 new, among the lowest prices in its size class. A 90-horsepower outboard pushed it to about 33 mph. Larson's foam-filled hull and simple rigging made it easy to trailer and launch single-handed.

This boat is for budget-minded families who want a first speed boat with minimal upkeep and low insurance costs. It trades refinement, finish quality, and top speed for affordability and easy ownership. Against the Hydrodyne Ski Craft above, the Larson is slower and produces a worse ski wake but costs far less and seats more people comfortably.

8. 1964 Glastron Futura 16

The 1964 Glastron Futura 16 ranks eighth for its sharp, finned styling and molded fiberglass hull, which made it one of the most distinctive designs of the model year. With a 100-horsepower outboard it reached about 36 mph. Its wraparound windshield and bucket seats gave it a sporty cockpit layout unusual at its roughly $2,600 price.

This boat is for buyers who want period styling and fiberglass durability without paying wooden-boat prices. It trades hull efficiency and ride quality for looks, and its flat bottom pounds in chop. Compared with the Larson All American above, the Glastron is faster and better looking but heavier and more expensive to power.

9. 1964 Lone Star Medallion 16

The 1964 Lone Star Medallion 16 ranks ninth because its riveted aluminum hull weighed only about 450 pounds, making it the lightest and most fuel-efficient boat in this group. A 60-horsepower outboard delivered roughly 28 mph. Aluminum construction meant no rot, no gelcoat crazing, and easy repair, at roughly $1,800 new.

This boat is for practical owners on small lakes who want minimal cost and maximum durability. It trades speed, ride softness, and prestige for light weight and low fuel burn. Against the Glastron Futura above, the Lone Star is slower and noisier but costs less to buy, tow, and run.

10. 1964 Starcraft Jupiter 15

The 1964 Starcraft Jupiter 15 ranks tenth for its low entry price of about $1,500 and simple aluminum hull that required almost no maintenance. A 50-horsepower outboard gave it around 26 mph, adequate for tubing and general lake use. Its 15-foot length made it easy to store in a garage and tow behind a midsize car.

This boat is for first-time buyers and casual users who want the lowest possible cost of entry into boating. It trades speed, comfort, and rough-water ability for affordability and simplicity. Compared with the Lone Star Medallion above, the Starcraft is smaller and slower but even cheaper to buy and run.

How we ranked these

We scored each 1964 speed boat on measured top speed, acceleration to plane, hull construction quality, engine reliability, and handling in chop, using period magazine tests, manufacturer spec sheets, and owner reports. Weighting favored verified performance data over marketing claims, with top speed and build quality carrying the most influence, followed by handling and engine dependability. Value was scored separately for the Best Value pick.

We deliberately ignored modern retrofits, restored examples with non-original engines, and dealer asking prices inflated by collector hype. Boats with unverifiable performance claims or no surviving test data were excluded. We also set aside cosmetic condition and trailer quality, since those vary wildly between individual used examples and say little about the hull design itself.

What to look for

The single biggest factor is engine condition, not hull brand. A 1964 boat with a rebuilt or well-documented original motor will outperform and outlast a prettier hull with a tired powerplant. Check compression, lower-unit oil, and transom tap-testing before anything else. Wood rot in stringers and transoms kills more classics than bad engines.

Most buyers make the mistake of chasing top speed numbers from old ads. A 1964 hull rated at 45 mph with a period two-stroke will feel nothing like a modern boat, and fuel range, noise, and rough-water comfort matter far more in real use. Buy the best-maintained example you can find, not the fastest one advertised.

Related questions

What was the fastest production speed boat in 1964?

Period tests generally put the fastest production stern-drive and inboard hulls in the low-to-mid 50 mph range, with a few custom race-bred models exceeding that. Exact rankings varied by engine option and prop setup, so no single 1964 model held an undisputed title across all magazine tests.

How much horsepower did a typical 1964 speed boat have?

Most consumer performance boats of 1964 ran between 80 and 200 horsepower, split between outboard two-strokes and inboard or stern-drive V8s. The largest factory V8 options approached 300 horsepower in premium hulls. Weight, hull design, and propeller choice often mattered more than raw horsepower for real-world speed.

Were 1964 speed boats fiberglass or wood?

By 1964 fiberglass had largely replaced wood for new performance hulls, offering lighter weight, easier maintenance, and consistent shapes. Wooden boats still existed, especially among older designs and custom builders, but they demanded far more upkeep. Fiberglass classics from that year generally survive better today if the core and stringers stayed dry.

What should I check before buying a 1964 speed boat?

Inspect the transom and stringers for rot or delamination, test engine compression and lower-unit oil, and verify the trailer is roadworthy. Ask for documentation on any rebuilds. Original paperwork and service records add real value, while fresh paint can hide structural problems, so look underneath and inside compartments.

Are 1964 speed boats collectible today?

Yes, well-preserved 1964 performance boats have a dedicated collector following, especially recognizable brand names and rare engine options. Values depend heavily on originality, hull condition, and documentation. Restored examples with non-original power often sell for less than survivors with matching, running original engines.

What fuel did 1964 speed boat engines use?

Most 1964 marine engines ran on leaded regular gasoline, and many two-stroke outboards required pre-mixed oil and fuel. Today owners typically use unleaded fuel with additives or ethanol-free gas where available. Older valve seats may need hardening for sustained unleaded use, so check engine history before running hard.

How fast could a 1964 outboard speed boat go?

Top outboard-powered performance hulls in 1964 typically reached the mid 30s to low 40s in mph, with twin-engine setups pushing higher. Hull design, weight distribution, and propeller pitch strongly affected results. Magazine tests often showed several mph difference between identical boats set up differently.

Is a 1964 speed boat hard to maintain?

It requires more attention than a modern boat, mainly due to obsolete parts, points ignition, carburetors, and older wiring. Many components can be rebuilt or substituted, and enthusiast clubs help source parts. Budget time and money for regular tuning, fuel system care, and trailer maintenance if you plan to use it often.

FAQ

What is the best overall 1964 speed boat?

Our Best Overall pick balances verified top speed, solid fiberglass construction, and dependable engine options that owners still report running well today. It scored highest across performance, handling, and build quality in period tests. Exact model choice depends on whether you prioritize outright speed or rough-water comfort.

What is the best value 1964 speed boat?

The Best Value pick delivers strong performance and parts availability at a lower typical asking price than premium brand hulls. It uses common engine families that are easier and cheaper to service. Buyers get most of the fun for noticeably less money, provided the hull is sound.

How do you rank 1964 speed boats fairly?

We weighted measured top speed, acceleration, hull construction, engine reliability, and handling in chop, using period magazine tests and owner reports. Marketing claims and unverifiable numbers were excluded. Value was scored separately so budget buyers get a useful recommendation alongside the overall winner.

Did 1964 speed boats use stern drives or outboards?

Both were common. Stern-drive and inboard V8 boats dominated the larger performance segment, while outboards powered lighter, cheaper hulls. Stern drives offered more torque and a cleaner transom, while outboards were easier to remove and service. The choice affected weight, handling, and maintenance costs significantly.

How much does a 1964 speed boat cost today?

Prices range widely, from a few thousand dollars for a project hull to tens of thousands for a documented, restored example with original power. Engine condition and structural soundness drive value more than brand alone. Trailers, paperwork, and originality also move the price noticeably.

Can you use a 1964 speed boat on modern lakes?

Yes, provided it meets local registration, safety equipment, and noise regulations. Some lakes restrict two-stroke engines or older fuel systems, so check rules first. Ethanol fuel and modern additives can affect older carbureted engines, so plan for fuel system maintenance.

What engines were common in 1964 speed boats?

Common power included inline-six and V8 inboards, stern drives from major marine engine makers, and two-stroke outboards in various horsepower ratings. Many hulls offered several engine options from the factory. Engine choice heavily influenced top speed, weight, and resale value.

How important is the trailer when buying a 1964 speed boat?

Very important, because a failing trailer can damage the hull and strand you. Check the frame for rust, inspect bearings and tires, and confirm the bunk setup supports the hull properly. A good trailer adds real value, while a bad one is an immediate expense.

Do 1964 speed boats hold their value?

Well-documented, original, and structurally sound examples tend to hold or slowly appreciate in value among collectors. Project boats and modified hulls often lose value. Condition and originality matter more than the model year itself for long-term value.

What is the biggest mistake first-time buyers make?

Falling for shiny paint and advertised top speed while ignoring structural rot and engine condition. A beautiful boat with a soft transom or tired motor becomes a money pit. Always inspect structure and mechanicals first, and treat cosmetics as the last priority.

Sources

• https://www.boatingmag.com
• https://www.boats.com
• https://www.tradeonlytoday.com
• https://www.soundingsonline.com
• https://www.antiqueboat.com
• https://www.acbs.org
• https://www.mercurymarine.com
• https://www.volvopenta.com

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