SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 boat specs
SunChaser
SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009
2009
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VS
SunChaser 8520C 2008 boat specs
SunChaser
SunChaser 8520C 2008
2008
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SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 vs SunChaser 8520C 2008 — Same Brand, Different Boat

The SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 vs SunChaser 8520C 2008 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 at 2,0 ft versus SunChaser 8520C 2008 at 2,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the SunChaser 8520C 2008 tips the scales at 1 875 lbs — 1 690 lbs less than the SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 at 185 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.

The SunChaser 8520C 2008 tops out at 90 hp. Engine specs for the SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 24 gal and 24 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.

Both boats are rated for 12 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.

Bottom line: The SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 and SunChaser 8520C 2008 are closely matched on the specs that matter most. Test-ride both on the water you actually use, check current dealer pricing, and factor in long-term service access before you sign.
General Boat Info
MakeSunChaser
MakeSunChaser
Model8520 4
Model8520C
Model Year2009
Model Year2008
Measurements / Dimensions
Beam102 in
Beam102 in
Beam - Meters2.59
Beam - Meters2.59
Beam - Inches102
Beam - Inches102
Weight - Detail1,850 lbs
Weight - Detail1,875 lbs
Weight - kg839.15
Weight - kg850.49
Weight - lbs.185
Weight - lbs.1875
Length - Feet2
Length - Feet2
Length - Inches3
Length - Inches3
Length overall - Detail20 ft. 3 in
Length overall - Detail20 ft. 3 in
Length overall - Meters6.17
Length overall - Meters6.17
Length overall - Inches243
Length overall - Inches243
Body / Hull
Hull materialAluminum
Hull materialnot available
Hull typePontoon
Hull typenot available
Pontoon and Inflatable Specific
Tube diameter25 in
Tube diameter25 in
Tube gauge0.08 in
Tube gauge.080 in
Engine and Drivetrain
Fuel tank capacity - Detail24 gal
Fuel tank capacity - Detail24 gal
Fuel tank capacity - Liters90.85
Fuel tank capacity - Liters90.85
Fuel tank capacity - Gal24
Fuel tank capacity - Gal24
Fuel typeGas
Fuel typeGas
Drive typeOutboard
Drive typeOutboard
Engine maxnot available
Engine max90 hp
Operational Info
Maximum capacity2,000 lbs
Maximum capacity2,000 lbs
Maximum people12
Maximum people12

SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 vs SunChaser 8520C 2008 — Common Questions

Which is the larger boat — the SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 or the SunChaser 8520C 2008?
The SunChaser 8520C 2008 is the longer of the two at 2,0 feet overall. The SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 comes in at 2,0 feet, making it roughly 0,0 ft shorter — a meaningful difference in deck room and overall on-water presence.
Which is easier to trailer — the SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 or the SunChaser 8520C 2008?
For trailering, the SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 has the edge at 185 lbs dry weight versus 1 875 lbs for the SunChaser 8520C 2008. Add a motor (typically 300–500 lbs for an outboard in this class), gear, and a partial fuel load and the difference grows. Lighter is friendlier on smaller tow vehicles and on fuel economy while hauling.
What is the maximum horsepower rating for these boats?
The SunChaser 8520C 2008 has a documented max rating of 90 hp. Engine specifications for the SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 were not available in our database — check the OEM spec sheet or manufacturer's website for confirmation.
How many people can each boat hold?
The SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 is Coast Guard rated for 12 passengers, while the SunChaser 8520C 2008 is certified for 12. Note that legal capacity and comfortable capacity aren't always the same thing — on a full day out, most experienced boaters aim for about 80% of the rated number to keep things comfortable.
Do these boats require an oversize trailer permit to tow on US highways?
Both the SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 and SunChaser 8520C 2008 share an 102 in beam — meaning both sit right at the 8’6" threshold that most US states use for standard-width loads. In most states you can tow at that width without a special permit, but regulations vary. Always check the rules for your state and any states you'll be passing through before your first long haul.
How do the fuel tanks compare on the SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 and SunChaser 8520C 2008?
Both boats carry similar fuel loads — 24 gallons and 24 gallons respectively. Range will depend heavily on motor choice, throttle usage, and whether you're on flat lake water or coastal chop.
Are the SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 and SunChaser 8520C 2008 from the same manufacturer?
Yes — both the SunChaser 8520 4.0 2009 and the SunChaser 8520C 2008 are built by SunChaser. That means shared dealer networks, common parts availability, and consistent build quality across the line. The choice between them is essentially a question of how much boat you need, not which brand you trust.