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THE ULTIMATE

Retro Runabout Guide

1974 American Jet

11/28/2016

6 Comments

 
Picture
The year of 1974 was a good one for the American Boat Company, especially when it comes to this particular American Eagle. The kinks from the first year of production were out of the way and the market was starting to fall in love with the model's design. While it has not been verified that the unique paint scheme on this boat was factory original, it does appear to fit the era of production. The cream, purple, and red color palette combined with the custom rear seating sets this boat apart from other American Eagles we've seen. Credit must be given to the quality of the interior workmanship as it matches the era and does not look out of place. While the original rear bench seats that came with the American Eagles were squared off in the corners, this custom interior takes cues from the Century Riviera 6-Meter rear seating minus the armrests.

The power plant in this beauty appears to be one of the 'Big Block' varieties that was commonly matched with the Berkeley Jet Drives. On top of the logical association between the jet drive and the common engines, the gold valve covers are a dead giveaway of an Oldsmobile engine. 
6 Comments

1972 Century Mark II Jet

11/7/2016

4 Comments

 
Picture
Not much is known about this Century Mark II besides that it is fast and loud. The most unique thing about this Retro Runabout is the rare Berkeley jet drive considering the make and model. Century was known for their direct drive applications at the time that this boat was produced and even with the complete switch to fiberglass in the 1980's the company predominantly stuck with sterndrive applications for their non-competition ski boats. 

Like many of the Berkeley Packajet applications from the 1970's, this one came with a Oldsmobile 455. The 7.5L big block is sure to throw massive rooster-tails at full speed (50+ MPH). 

This 'Hot Rod' model shares some similarities to the Arabian such as the side-bench seating arrangement and upholstered rear deck. The bow deck appears to be an ode to its bigger brother with the hood-scoop-esque styling. 

If the Arabian was the bigger brother then the Ski Fury is definitely a close cousin. The direct drive from the Ski Fury compliments the Mark II's V-drive or jet setup in the same length hull. The bow deck styling and bottom-side transoms are also very similar. 
4 Comments

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