1998 Fountain 42 Lightning
$99,500
Boat in Old Saybrook, CT 06475 US
42 Lightning
2 Engines (2x Mercury)
42 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
1998 Fountain 42 Lightning - Turnkey, Immaculate, Fully Upgraded
If you're looking for the ultimate performance boat in exceptional condition, look no further than this 1998 Fountain 42 Lightning. This boat is a true time capsule with only 198 original hours on twin stock Mercury 500HP motors, and it's been meticulously cared for from day one.
Key Features:
Twin-Step Hull - Signature Fountain performance and efficiency
Twin Mercury 500HP - All stock, 198 original hours
Silent Choice Exhaust System - For flexibility and peace of mind
Always Indoor Stored - In a climate-controlled garage, no sun or weather exposure
Routine Maintenance - Serviced regularly, extremely well-maintained @ Merc Dealer
Excellent Recent Survey - Conducted this past winter prior to upgrades
Recent Upgrades (Over $35K invested in the last year):
Brand New Mercury Bravo One XZ Drives
New Mercury Transom Assemblies
New Hydromotive Props
New Gil Exhaust Manifolds
New Drive Indicator 3300C Cables
Only Test Hours on all new components
Turn key, open checkbook - no shortcuts, no surprises. It's in amazing original condition, inside and out. Ready for the water today.
Extras:
Comes with a Red Myco Trailer - Matches the boat and is in great condition
Turnkey and Ready to Go - Just add water
Whether you're looking to go fast, turn heads, or both - this Fountain 42 Lightning delivers. You won't find another one like it with this kind of care, history, and recent investment.
Serious inquiries only. Title in hand. Let's talk if you're ready to own one of the cleanest, most dialed-in 42 Lightnings out there.
Fountain's race-proven 42' Lightning holds the current V-bottom world speed record at 143.946 mph, so you can imagine how the boat performs with stock horsepower. Staggered engines bring the props closer together and keep the center of gravity down along the keel, where it works best. Preferred power is twin 500 EFI Mercury's (80+ mph) although you can step all the way up to 900 SC's and easily push the speedometer into triple digits.
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1/20/26 | Price decreased | $99,500(-9.1%) |
| 10/15/25 | Price increased | $109,500(+10.1%) |
| 6/28/25 | Initial price | $99,500 |
1998 Fountain 42 Lightning Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1998 Fountain 42 Lightning
Customers consistently praise the 1998 Fountain 42 Lightning for its exceptional performance and sleek design
Owners highlight its powerful twin engines that deliver impressive speed and smooth handling, making it a favorite for both offshore adventures and high-speed cruising. The spacious cockpit and comfortable seating arrangement are often noted for enhancing the overall boating experience, providing ample room for entertaining guests. Additionally, many appreciate the boat’s solid construction and reliable build quality, which contribute to its durability and longevity. Overall, the 1998 Fountain 42 Lightning is celebrated for combining luxury, speed, and functionality in a stylish package.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1998 Fountain 42 Lightning is a high-performance powerboat known for its speed, handling, and sleek design. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Powerful Performance: Equipped with robust engines, the 42 Lightning delivers impressive speed and acceleration, making it ideal for thrill-seekers and offshore racing enthusiasts.
Superior Handling: The hull design offers excellent stability and smooth handling even in rough waters, ensuring a comfortable and controlled ride.
Quality Construction: Built with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, the boat is durable and reliable.
Spacious Layout: The deck and cabin areas are well-designed to provide ample space for passengers, making it suitable for both day trips and longer outings.
Classic Styling: The sleek, aggressive lines give the boat a timeless, sporty appearance that stands out on the water.
Cons
Fuel Consumption: Due to its powerful engines and performance focus, fuel efficiency is relatively low, leading to higher operating costs.
Maintenance Costs: High-performance boats like the 42 Lightning often require more frequent and specialized maintenance, which can be costly.
Limited Cabin Amenities: While spacious, the cabin may lack some modern conveniences found in newer models, potentially affecting comfort for extended trips.
Ride Firmness: The performance-oriented hull can result in a firmer ride compared to cruising boats, which might not appeal to all passengers.
Age Considerations: Being a 1998 model, some components may be outdated or require upgrades to meet current standards and personal preferences.
Made For
The 1998 Fountain 42 Lightning is designed for boating enthusiasts who seek a high-performance, stylish, and reliable powerboat. Ideal for those who enjoy fast-paced offshore cruising, sport fishing, or thrilling day rides, this boat appeals to individuals who value quality craftsmanship, advanced engineering, and sleek design. Whether you're an experienced boater looking for adrenaline-pumping speed or someone who appreciates luxurious comfort on the water, the Fountain 42 Lightning offers a perfect blend of power and sophistication.
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Meet the Broker

Address
Boat Location
Contact Eclipse Yachts
580 Thames St, Newport, RI, 02840


















