Should I repower my 87 Bayliner 2850 w/a 496 Merc freshH20 or buy a 97 Wellcraft 2800 Martinique w/454 seaH20?

Re-powering is a difficult choice. I've done it, and I'm happy with the results, but would I make the same choice again. I don't know. In your case, I know your Bayliner but less about the Wellcraft, but I'd be concerned with newly "rebuilt' engines.....not only that but in the current economy, boats are selling for very low prices. I think I'd look around for something newer, with much smaller, more fuel efficient engine. Giving up speed for fuel efficiency.......Having said that, if you re-powered with say a Volvo, 4 cylinder, freshwater cooled engine, and prop it for your boat (yes it's possible) you could do that for far less than $18K....... those big block engines just consume too much fuel, and the boat sits at the dock. I hope this helps!