202 vs 203

Been a member and lurker for awhile but finally at a place and time where I can seriously shop for a used champion. Fished a few times out of a 203 in the late 90’s and always liked that boat but honestly don’t know the differences in model numbers. What is the difference between the 202 and 203? I think I read somewhere that the gas tank was moved starting a certain year on the 203’s from back to under seat, what year was that? Is there preferred model years to look for as far as problems or quality control?
maybe I should ask if there is a published recourse that answers all these types of questions?
Many Thanks in advance.

Not enough differences to keep me from buying one over the other. I believe the hull is exactly the same. Storage boxes behind the seats are different. The later 203 mid gas tank model would not be my first choice but if it was all I had to choose from and it was exceptionally clean and well taken care of I'd probably buy it too.

Good luck with your search. It took me several years to find a 202.

Here’s one that’ll make your mouth water.

https://i.postimg.cc/p9YcN7yV/24182-...-B82-FD7-C.jpg

I’d add the 201 to that list.

https://i.postimg.cc/rDYF1nqm/0-EFE0...B42-DD4477.jpg

What would be the difference in the 201, 202, & 203? Can I assume they are are 20 footers just different layouts? Are are the hulls different? Is it the 202 is the improvement over 201 as the 203 would be? Were these 3 made at the same time?

Everything you need to know is in this link.
https://www.bbcboards.net/showthread.php?t=59135

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Originally Posted by BalsaBee

I’d add the 201 to that list.

https://i.postimg.cc/rDYF1nqm/0-EFE0...B42-DD4477.jpg

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What's the story on this beauty

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Originally Posted by 86 inches

What's the story on this beauty

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I can’t remember where I found that picture. One of many I’ve saved. Killer rig for sure. Trailer mods are insane. Crazy to think that the 201 came right after the 168.

168/201/202 would be a killer three to own set up with new power plants and electronics.

201=86" beam
202 & 203=90" beam

The 202 and 203 are slightly different hulls (strakes I believe). 202 is a bit faster and the 203 is a bit less tippy at rest. The 203 got an updated dash design, Llebroc seats, and the rear compartments are different. You also don't have to pull the batteries in a 203 to access your livewell fill, aerator, or bilge pump.

You can't go wrong with any of them!

If your facebook this is a page just for buying and selling Champions:

(1) Champion Boats Buyers & Sellers | Facebook

Quote:

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Originally Posted by BalsaBee

I can’t remember where I found that picture. One of many I’ve saved. Killer rig for sure. Trailer mods are insane. Crazy to think that the 201 came right after the 168.

168/201/202 would be a killer three to own set up with new power plants and electronics.

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Pardon my ignorance of Mercury motors but that's a V8, right? Would love to see the numbers with that powerplant.

He needs to lose the windshields, though. I don't know about those seats, either. They certainly aren't Dean's and I don't think they are Llbroc, either. Is that a Ghost up front? I don't know how he squeezed those huge graphs in with that arrangement. The 201 bow has a relatively narrow-angle. It's hard to mount a modern TM while keeping the head inside the gunnel without limiting your options for graph placement.

Many thanks for all replies and information. Very helpful indeed!

Anyone know if there is any difference in livewell size between 202 and 203?

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Originally Posted by Cap

Anyone know if there is any difference in livewell size between 202 and 203?

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No difference.

Thank you!

I need one of those V-8s.

When a model is “Elite” what does that mean? For example, what is the difference in a 203 Elite and a 203?

Elite models may have a livewell pump out. More features will be standard with an Elite.

Be aware that some sellers don't have a clue what they have. When I bought my 202, the guy I bought it off of had no idea what he had other than it was a 1996 20' Champion. :laugh:

Thanks again.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by 86 inches

Pardon my ignorance of Mercury motors but that's a V8, right? Would love to see the numbers with that powerplant.

He needs to lose the windshields, though. I don't know about those seats, either. They certainly aren't Dean's and I don't think they are Llbroc, either. Is that a Ghost up front? I don't know how he squeezed those huge graphs in with that arrangement. The 201 bow has a relatively narrow-angle. It's hard to mount a modern TM while keeping the head inside the gunnel without limiting your options for graph placement.

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So in this instance did they just ignore the boat rating? In general the boats are rated for "any V6" correct? Doesn't bother me one bit, just interested in how all that goes down.

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Originally Posted by jign4pigs

So in this instance did they just ignore the boat rating? In general the boats are rated for "any V6" correct? Doesn't bother me one bit, just interested in how all that goes down.

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I don't really think it makes a difference unless they run into an issue with tournament rules. Coast Guard doesn't limit the HP on vessels over 20' so any limit is put on by the manufacturer. Personally, if I ever have to repower, I'll probably go Yamaha SHO. That thing is a beast and will turn more prop than the Merc. And if you want to tinker with the output, it can easily be cranked up.