Difference in handling: R-25, R-27?

[Obiwan]

I'm looking at a 2008 R-25 to purchase. Is there a noticeable difference in how they handle under power? For Example, does the R-25 roll more?

 

[Regulus]

I've been on both (and own a 2023 R25) and both being 8'6" beams rolled the same to me. extra 2' helped a bit in taking on waves, but honestly anything above a 3 footer felt the same. You may want to look at changing out the prop for hole shot, performance, and maneuverability. Martin has amazing videos and advice on that for the R27, but it applies to the R25 as well. I don't think you can go wrong with either boat, however I am a big believer in get the biggest boat you can comfortably afford. The 27 has some advantages over the 25 that are obvious, more room, gas stove etc. and you may end up like me with the 25 and coveting those amenities, especially at anchor. Regardless you will love the boat and love the community even more.

 

[scross]

As referenced above, Martin’s data is from his R-27 O/B. There is probably more a difference in handling between a R-25 diesel and a R-25 O/B than between the R-25 diesel and the R-27 diesel. Mainly due to the lower C.G. of the diesel powered boats.
If I had to choose between the R-25 with a Yanmar diesel or the R-27 with the VO D3 diesel I’d choose the R-27 every time. While both are orphan engines, parts for the D3 are easier to get.
The roll probably isn’t much different between the R-25 and R-27 diesels but the pitch should be stabler due to the greater length and weight.

 

[Obiwan]

Thanks for the comments. The R-25 I'm looking at has a Cummins diesel, 110 hp, Model MR504LHM00 with 475 hours.
Would you choose that over the VO D3 diesel?

 

[scross]

The Cummins Diesel is the absolute last engine I would choose for a Ranger Tug. There are literally dozens and dozens of post about them. Key takeaways are near impossible to get professional service on and difficulty getting parts. Back in 2015 when we were shopping for our 2009 R-25 Classic (Yanmar 4BY2-150) we looked two boats with the Cummins, did research on them and walked away. Suggest you do a search on this forum, read all the comments and make your own decision.
My opinion here but of the 3 engines mentioned I would pick a R-25SC or R-27 with the VP D3.
That said, when we sold our R-25 Classic we went with a C-28 and a big part of that choice was to get the VP D4-260 engine.

 

[Regulus]

As referenced above, Martin’s data is from his R-27 O/B. There is probably more a difference in handling between a R-25 diesel and a R-25 O/B than between the R-25 diesel and the R-27 diesel. Mainly due to the lower C.G. of the diesel powered boats.
If I had to choose between the R-25 with a Yanmar diesel or the R-27 with the VO D3 diesel I’d choose the R-27 every time. While both are orphan engines, parts for the D3 are easier to get.
The roll probably isn’t much different between the R-25 and R-27 diesels but the pitch should be stabler due to the greater length and weight.

You are right and I misread the initial post. Thank you for clarifying!