1993-1999 Sea-Doo SPX Specs and Review [Video]

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Sea-Doo marketed its widely popular SPX family from 1992 through 1999. Surprisingly, each Sea-Doo SPX model was almost identical to the previous year’s XP.

If you want to learn all about this popular vintage jet ski, this post is for you.

We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know into this Sea-Doo SPX review!

Sea-Doo SPX Review

It’s safe to say that Sea-Doo’s XP line was one of the most successful PWC families in history.

The first XP was actually a dual-carb SP, but this model quickly became the flagship model in Sea-Doo’s fleet.

To get the most out of this model, the Canadian manufacturer virtually marketed two XPs each year. The all-new machine was always labeled as XP, while the previous year’s XP was also offered under the brand name SPX. (Except 1998-1999 when the models were the same as the 1996 XP.)

Sea-Doo continued this trend throughout the ’90s before it dropped the SPX in 1999.

Since we’ve posted a detailed review for each XP model, it wouldn’t make much sense to write the same reviews again for the SPX line.

Instead, we’ve linked our XP reviews below. If you want to know more about any of these models, don’t hesitate to follow these links:

1993 SPX 580 = 1992 XP 580 (587)

1994 SPX 650 = 1993 XP 650 (657)

1995 SPX 650x = 1994 XP 650x (657x)

1996 SPX 720 = 1995 XP 720 (717)

1997-99 SPX 800 = 1996 XP 800 (787)

If you want to compare the various generations head-to-head, keep reading!

1993 Sea-Doo SPX 580 Review

The first Sea-Doo SPX 580 made its debut for the 1993 model year and was almost identical to the 1992 Sea-Doo XP.

This machine still had the outdated 1st generation Sea-Doo hull, while the power source on the ski was the upgraded “White” Rotax 587 engine.

This 580cc, oil-injected, 2-stroke twin marine engine cranked out 56 HP and ensured a top speed of 45 mph under ideal conditions.

The ski’s weight was 5 pounds more than the original ’92 XP, as it weighed 370 pounds.

1994 Sea-Doo SPX 650 Review

The 1994 Sea-Doo SPX 650 (a.k.a. SPX 657) was actually identical to the 1993 XP 650 (or 657).

This machine was built on the rounded, 2nd generation hull and housed a dual-carb Rotax 657 engine. This 650cc, 2-stroke twin featured an oil injection system, CDI ignition, open-loop cooling system and was rated at 70 HP.

Thanks to this power source, the top speed of a stock 1994 SPX was about 50 mph.

Unfortunately, this SPX was 24 pounds heavier than its XP-equivalent for some reason.

1995 Sea-Doo SPX 650x Review

Like the 1994 model, the 1995 SPX 650x (a.k.a. SPX 657x) still had the 2nd generation hull, while the all-new 1995 XP was built on the innovative X4 platform.

The 1995 SPX was a rebranded 1994 XP featuring a dual-carb Rotax 657x engine rated at 80 HP.

Are you wondering what the differences are between the Rotax 657 and 657x engines?

In a nutshell, the major improvements on the 657x engine were as follows:

  • Tuned exhaust system with a slightly larger expansion chamber
  • Two Mikuni BN-38I carburetors (the base Rotax 657 utilized two Mikuni BN-38s)
  • Full circle counterweights
  • Improved timing

Thanks to these advanced features, the 657x offered a whopping 80 HP, about 10 HP more than its predecessor.

This power source propelled the 1995 SPX up to 50 mph on good days.

1996 Sea-Doo SPX 720 Review

For 1996 the SPX saw some major changes, as its engine was identical to the 1995 XP. This model was known as the 1996 SPX 720 as well as the SPX 717.

Surprisingly, this ski was still built on the 2nd generation “old” Sea-Doo hull, even though the 1995 XP utilized the widely-popular X4 hull.

The power source of the 1996 SPX was the proven Rotax 717 marine engine. The latter was a 718cc, an oil-injected 2-stroke twin was rated at 85 HP. Although this unit didn’t crank out significantly more power than the 657x, it ensured a better bottom end.

Power was delivered towards an upgraded Bombardier Formula jet pump featuring a 4-inch spacer on its front. The main idea behind this spacer was to increase water volume, which resulted in more thrust.

Unfortunately, this adjustment offered a poorer riding experience on choppy waters, as the jet pump needed more time to fill itself with water after unhooking.

The top speed of the 1996 SPX 720 was about 50 mph, but it accelerated more aggressively than its predecessor.

1997-1999 Sea-Doo SPX 800 Review

There’s no question that the most desirable SPXs were the 1997-1999 models, which were almost identical to the 1996 Sea-Doo XP.

This is when the SPX line finally got the extremely popular X4 platform, measuring 100 inches in length, 41.5 inches in width, and 36.2 inches in height.

This hull was narrowed at the bow and extended towards the rear end of the ski. It was also equipped with a tuneable ride plate, well-designed sponsons, and removable trim tabs for better stability and handling.

While the 1997-1999 XPs came with the new parabolic “hourglass shape” hull, the SPXs were still built on this X4 platform during these years.

The engine on the new SPX 800 (a.k.a SPX 787) was the high-performance Rotax 787 R.A.V.E. power mill rated at 110 HP. This unit was a 782cc, 2-stroke, 2-cylinder marine engine featuring an oil injection system, CDI ignition, open-loop cooling system, and the innovative R.A.V.E exhaust power valves.

The key advantage of these SPXs was that the design flaws of 1996’s Rotax 787 engine had already been corrected for these years.

For example, in the ’96 XP, the flywheel and the counterbalancer shaft were prone to breaking into pieces, causing major engine damage. This is because these parts were not correctly heat treated like they were in the ’97-’99 models.

What’s more, the R.A.V.E. valves also saw some upgrades for the ’97 season. In the ‘96 models, these valves often snapped off, damaging the cylinder head and pistons.

Besides these major components, many smaller units were upgraded for 1997, like the ignition, aluminum water regulator, and the exhaust system.

Thanks to these upgrades, the ’97-’99 SPX models were far more reliable and durable than their 1996 XP predecessor. On top of that, the 1998 SPX was slightly lighter for some reason, as it weighed only 428 pounds while the ’96 XP weighed 434 pounds.

Therefore, if you are looking for a vintage Sea-Doo SPX or XP for sale, keep in mind that the 1997-1999 SPXs are considered a better deal than the equivalent ’96 XP.

To the greatest regret of many fans, the SPX never got the most powerful Rotax 591 power source and the parabolic Sea-Doo hull, as the manufacturer reserved them for the flagship XP models.

The X4-hulled SPX with the 787 R.A.V.E. engine was marketed from 1997 through 1999.

After this model year, the SPX model permanently disappeared from the market, as did the X4 hull.

Sea-Doo SPX vs. Sea-Doo XP Comparison Chart

ModelYearEquivalentEngineccHPTop Speed (mph)Weigth (lbs)Hull Design
SPX 58019931992 XP 580"White" 5875805645370I gen. SP
SPX 65019941993 XP 6506576507045-47397II gen. SP
SPX 650x19951994 XP 650x657x6508048-50397II gen. SP
SPX 72019961995 XP 7207177188550412II gen. SP
SPX 80019971996 XP 800787 RAVE78211056434X-4
SPX 80019981996 XP 800787 RAVE78211056428X-4
SPX 80019991996 XP 800787 RAVE78211056434X-4

Sea-Doo SPX Specs Chart

For your convenience, we’ve compiled the Sea-Doo SPX specifications into these charts!

1993 Sea-Doo SPX 580 Specs

1993 Sea-Doo SPXSpecs
Engine SpecsEngine Specs
Engine type Rotax 2-stroke, type 587
Induction type Rotary valve
Exhaust system Water cooled/water injected
Lubrication - type Oil injection
Lubrication - oil typeSea-Doo Injection Oil
Number of cylinders 2
Bore76.0 mm (2.992 in)
Stroke64.0 mm (2.520 in)
Displacement 580.7 cm3 (35.43 in3)
Compression Ratio (corrected)5.9 : 1 (11.5 : 1 -uncorrected)
Maximum Power (approximately)56 HP
Maximum Torque (approximately)65 Nm (48 lbf.ft) @ 5750 RPM
RPM Limiter Operation @6550 RPM ± 100
Cooling TypeWater cooled, total loss type - Direct flow from propulsion unit
Overheating Beeper, Switch On @96-99 °C (205-210°F)
Fuel - typeRegular unleaded gasoline
Carburetor - type and numberDiaphragm type - Quantity : 2
Electrical FeaturesElectrical Features
Magneto generator output160 W @ 6000 RPM
Ignition system type Capacitor Discharge Ignition (Breakerless)
Spark plug - Make and typeNGK BR7ES
Spark plug - Gap0.5 - 0.6 mm (0.020-0.024 in)
Starting systemElectric starter
Ignition timing - BTDC2.65 mm (0.104 in) (21° ± 1°)
Ignition timing - NoteChecked with engine cold. Marks must align @ 6000 RPM)
Battery12 V, 19 A
Starting system Fuse 5 A
Charging system Fuse15 A
PropulsionPropulsion
Propulsion systemBombardier Formula pump
Jet pump typeAxial flow, single stage
Impeller Rotation (seen from rear)Counter-clockwise
TransmissionDirect drive
Coupling TypeCrown Splines
Impeller shaft reservoir oil typeSea-Doo synthetic oil polyolester 75W90GL5 - P/N 293 600 011
Pivoting angle of direction (nozzle)~ 26°
Minimum required water level for jet pump60 cm (2 ft)
Impeller Diameter139.5 mm (5.49 in)
Jet pump power - estimated15.14 kW (20.29 hp)
Performance Performance
Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank without reserve~ 1.20 hours
Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank reserve~ 13 minutes
Maximum Speed *45 mph
* Top speed may vary depending on operator and passenger weight, water conditions, wind, current, altitude etc.* Top speed may vary depending on operator and passenger weight, water conditions, wind, current, altitude etc.
Dimensions Dimensions
Number of passengers1 operator and 1 passenger
Overall length256 cm (100.5 in)
Overall width105 cm (41.5 in)
Overall height92 cm (36.2 in)
Weight168 kg (370 lb)
Load limit160 kg (352 lb)
Hull MaterialComposite (fiberglass)
CapacitiesCapacities
Fuel tank33 L (8.7 US gal)
Impeller shaft reservoir - Capacity65 mL (2.2 US oz)
Impeller shaft reservoir - Oil level heightup to plug
Injection oil reservoir2.8 L (95 US fl oz)

1994 Sea-Doo SPX 650 Specs

1994 Sea-Doo SPXSpecs
Engine SpecsEngine Specs
Engine type Rotax 2-stroke, type 657
Induction type Rotary valve
Exhaust system Water cooled/water injected
Lubrication - type Oil injection
Lubrication - oil typeSea-Doo Injection Oil
Number of cylinders 2
Displacement 650 cm3 (39.66 in3)
Maximum Power (approximately)70 HP
RPM Limiter Operation @7000 RPM ± 100
Cooling TypeWater cooled, total loss type - Direct flow from propulsion unit
Fuel - typeRegular unleaded gasoline
Carburetor - type and numberDiaphragm type - Quantity : 2
Electrical FeaturesElectrical Features
Magneto generator output160 W @ 6000 RPM
Ignition system type Capacitor Discharge Ignition (Breakerless)
Spark plug - Make and typeNGK BR8ES
Spark plug - Gap0.5 - 0.6 mm (0.020-0.024 in)
Starting systemElectric starter
Battery12 V, 19 A
Starting system Fuse 5 A
Charging system Fuse15 A
PropulsionPropulsion
Propulsion systemBombardier Formula pump
Jet pump typeAxial flow, single stage
TransmissionDirect drive
Impeller shaft reservoir oil typeSea-Doo synthetic polyolester oil 75W90 GL5
Pivoting angle of direction (nozzle)~ 26°
Minimum required water level for jet pump60 cm (2 ft)
Performance Performance
Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank without reserve~ 1.10 hours
Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank reserve~ 10 minutes
Maximum Speed *45-47 mph
* Top speed may vary depending on operator and passenger weight, water conditions, wind, current, altitude etc.* Top speed may vary depending on operator and passenger weight, water conditions, wind, current, altitude etc.
Dimensions Dimensions
Number of passengers1 operator and 1 passenger
Overall length254 cm (100 in)
Overall width105 cm (41.5 in)
Overall height92 cm (36.2 in)
Weight180 kg (397 lb)
Load limit160 kg (352 lb)
Hull MaterialComposite (fiberglass)
CapacitiesCapacities
Fuel tank34 L (9 US gal)
Impeller shaft reservoir - Capacity65 mL (2.2 US oz)
Impeller shaft reservoir - Oil level heightup to plug
Injection oil reservoir4.5 L (153 US fl oz)

1995 Sea-Doo SPX 650 Specs

1995 Sea-Doo SPXSpecs
Engine SpecsEngine Specs
Engine type Rotax 2-stroke, type 657
Induction type Rotary valve
Exhaust system Water cooled/water injected
Lubrication - type Oil injection
Lubrication - oil typeBombardier Rotax Injection Oil
Number of cylinders 2
Displacement 650 cm3 (39.66 in3)
Maximum Power (approximately)80 HP
RPM Limiter Operation @7000 RPM (+100, -50)
Cooling TypeWater cooled, total loss type - Direct flow from propulsion unit
Fuel - typeRegular unleaded gasoline
Carburetor - type and numberDiaphragm type - Quantity : 2
Electrical FeaturesElectrical Features
Magneto generator output160 W @ 6000 RPM
Ignition system type Capacitor Discharge Ignition (Breakerless)
Spark plug - Make and typeNGK BR8ES
Spark plug - Gap0.5 - 0.6 mm (0.020-0.024 in)
Starting systemElectric starter
Battery12 V, 19 A
Starting system Fuse 5 A
Charging system Fuse15 A
Fuse - VTS system15 A
PropulsionPropulsion
Propulsion systemBombardier Formula pump
Jet pump typeAxial flow, single stage
TransmissionDirect drive
Impeller shaft reservoir oil typeSea-Doo synthetic polyolester oil 75W90 GL5
Pivoting angle of direction (nozzle)~ 26°
Pivoting angle of variable trim system~ 10°
Minimum required water level for jet pump90 cm (3 ft)
Performance Performance
Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank without reserve~ 50 min
Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank reserve~ 10 minutes
Maximum Speed *48-50 mph
* Top speed may vary depending on operator and passenger weight, water conditions, wind, current, altitude etc.* Top speed may vary depending on operator and passenger weight, water conditions, wind, current, altitude etc.
Dimensions Dimensions
Number of passengers1 operator and 1 passenger
Overall length254 cm (100 in)
Overall width105 cm (41.5 in)
Overall height92 cm (36.2 in)
Weight180 kg (397 lb)
Load limit160 kg (352 lb)
Hull MaterialComposite (fiberglass)
Capacities Capacities
Fuel tank34 L (9 US gal)
Impeller shaft reservoir - Capacity65 mL (2.2 US oz)
Impeller shaft reservoir - Oil level heightup to plug
Injection oil reservoir4.5 L (153 US fl oz, 1.2 U.S. gal))

1996 Sea-Doo SPX 720 Specs

1996 Sea-Doo SPXSpecs
Engine SpecsEngine Specs
Engine type Rotax 2-stroke, type 717
Induction type Rotary valve
Exhaust system Water cooled/water injected
Lubrication - type Oil injection
Lubrication - oil typeBombardier Rotax Injection Oil
Number of cylinders 2
Displacement 718 cm3 (43.81 in3)
Maximum Power (approximately)85 HP
RPM Limiter Operation @7000 RPM ± 50
Cooling TypeWater cooled, total loss type - Direct flow from propulsion unit
Fuel - typeRegular unleaded gasoline
Carburetor - type and numberBN 38I Diaphragm - Quantity : 2
Electrical FeaturesElectrical Features
Magneto generator output160 W @ 6000 RPM
Ignition system type CDI
Spark plug - Make and typeNGK BR8ES
Spark plug - Gap0.5 - 0.6 mm (0.020-0.024 in)
Starting systemElectric starter
Battery12 V, 19 A
Starting system Fuse 5 A
Charging system Fuse15 A
Fuse - VTS system7.5 A
PropulsionPropulsion
Propulsion systemBombardier Formula pump
Jet pump typeAxial flow, single stage
TransmissionDirect drive
Impeller shaft reservoir oil typeSea-Doo synthetic polyolester oil 75W90 GL5
Pivoting angle of direction (nozzle)~ 26°
Pivoting angle of variable trim system~ 8°
Minimum required water level for jet pump90 cm (3 ft)
Performance Performance
Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank without reserve~ 45 min
Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank reserve~ 9 minutes
Maximum Speed *50 mph
* Top speed may vary depending on operator and passenger weight, water conditions, wind, current, altitude etc.* Top speed may vary depending on operator and passenger weight, water conditions, wind, current, altitude etc.
Dimensions Dimensions
Number of passengers1 operator and 1 passenger
Overall length254 cm (100 in)
Overall width105 cm (41.5 in)
Overall height92 cm (36.2 in)
Weight187 kg (412 lb)
Load limit160 kg (352 lb)
Hull MaterialComposite (fiberglass)
Capacities Capacities
Fuel tank34 L (9 US gal)
Impeller shaft reservoir - Capacity90 mL (3 US oz)
Impeller shaft reservoir - Oil level heightup to plug
Injection oil reservoir4.5 L (153 US fl oz, 1.2 U.S. gal))

1997-1999 Sea-Doo SPX 800 Specs

1997 Sea-Doo SPXSpecs
Engine SpecsEngine Specs
Engine type Rotax 2-stroke, type 787
Induction type Rotary valve
Exhaust system Water cooled / water injected
Exhaust valve R.A.V.E.
Lubrication - type Oil injection
Lubrication - oil typeFormula XP-S Synthetic Injection Oil
Number of cylinders 2
Displacement 782 cm3 (47.69 in3)
Maximum Power (approximately)110 HP
RPM Limiter Operation @7200 RPM ± 50
Cooling TypeWater cooled, total loss type - Direct flow from propulsion unit
Fuel - typeRegular unleaded gasoline
Carburetor - type and numberBN 40I Diaphragm - Quantity : 2
Electrical FeaturesElectrical Features
Magneto generator output180 W @ 6000 RPM
Ignition system type DC-CDI
Spark plug - Make and typeNGK BR8ES
Spark plug - Gap0.5 - 0.6 mm (0.020-0.024 in)
Starting systemElectric starter
Battery12 V, 19 A
Starting system Fuse 5 A
Charging system Fuse2 x 15 A
Fuse - VTS system7.5 A
Fuse - Holder relay 5 A
PropulsionPropulsion
Propulsion systemBombardier Formula pump
Jet pump typeAxial flow, single stage
TransmissionDirect drive
Impeller shaft reservoir oil typeSea-Doo synthetic polyolester oil 75W90 GL5
Pivoting angle of direction (nozzle)~ 26°
Pivoting angle of variable trim system~ 8°
Minimum required water level for jet pump90 cm (3 ft)
Performance Performance
Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank without reserve~36 minutes
Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank reserve~7 minutes
Maximum Speed *56 mph
* Top speed may vary depending on operator and passenger weight, water conditions, wind, current, altitude etc.* Top speed may vary depending on operator and passenger weight, water conditions, wind, current, altitude etc.
Dimensions Dimensions
Number of passengers1 operator and 1 passenger
Overall length254 cm (100 in)
Overall width105 cm (41.5 in)
Overall height92 cm (36.2 in)
Weight197 kg (434 lb)
Load limit160 kg (352 lb)
Hull MaterialComposite (fiberglass)
Capacities Capacities
Fuel tank34 L (9 US gal)
Impeller shaft reservoir - Capacity90 mL (3 U.S. oz)
Impeller shaft reservoir - Oil level heightup to plug
Injection oil reservoir4.5 L (1.2 U.S. gal))

These charts are for informational purposes only! For exact specifications, please refer to the factory manual.

Vintage Sea-Doo SPX For Sale

If you are considering purchasing one, you probably want to know where to find a Sea-Doo SPX for sale. As this model vanished from the market in 1999, it’s already a collectible item, so finding one is not an easy task!

We recommend that you start your research on dedicated Sea-Doo forums and Facebook fan groups. Aside from some good deals, you may find some valuable info there about this ski.

Besides these sources, you may also find some used Sea-Doo SPXs for sale on Craigslist, PWC Trader, and other dedicated jet ski swap sites.

Takeaway

As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the Sea-Doo SPX!

What is a Sea-Doo SPX?

The Sea-Doo SPX was a popular vintage sit-down jet ski manufactured in the ‘90s.

What Year did Sea-Doo Make the SPX?

Sea-Doo marketed the SPX from 1993 through 1999.

What is the Difference Between the Sea-Doo SPX and an XP?

Simply put, each Sea-Doo SPX was equivalent to the previous year’s XP model except the ’98-’99 models, which were identical to the ’96 XP (without the bugs!).

How Much Did a Sea-Doo SPX Weigh?

The dry weight of the Sea-Doo SPX ranged from 370 up to 434 pounds depending on the model year.

What Kind of Engine Did the Sea-Doo SPX Have?

The Sea-Doo SPX was manufactured with four different engine options, which were as follows:

  • 1993 Sea-Doo SPX: Rotax 580 (587cc, twin)
  • 1994 Sea-Doo SPX: Rotax 657 (650cc, twin)
  • 1995 Sea-Doo SPX: Rotax 657x (650cc, twin)
  • 1996 Sea-Doo SPX: Rotax 717 (718cc, twin)
  • 1997-1999 Sea-Doo SPX: Rotax 787 R.A.V.E. (782cc, twin)

How Much Horsepower Did a Sea-Doo SPX Have?

The horsepower ratings of various Sea-Doo SPX models were as follows:

  • 1993 Sea-Doo SPX: 56 HP
  • 1994 Sea-Doo SPX: 70 HP
  • 1995 Sea-Doo SPX: 80 HP
  • 1996 Sea-Doo SPX: 85 HP
  • 1997-1999 Sea-Doo SPX: 110 HP

How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo SPX Use?

The Sea-Doo SPX models fuel consumption figures were strongly dependent on their engine option:

  • 1993 Sea-Doo SPX: 5.5 GPH at WOT
  • 1994 Sea-Doo SPX: 7.8 GPH at WOT
  • 1995 Sea-Doo SPX: 8.4 GPH at WOT
  • 1996 Sea-Doo SPX: 9.2 GPH at WOT
  • 1997-1999 Sea-Doo SPX: 11.7 GPH at WOT

How Fast Did a Sea-Doo SPX Go?

The top speed of each Sea-Doo SPXs was as follows:

  • 1993 Sea-Doo SPX: 45 mph
  • 1994 Sea-Doo SPX: 45-47 mph
  • 1995 Sea-Doo SPX: 48-50 mph
  • 1996 Sea-Doo SPX: 50 mph
  • 1997-1999 Sea-Doo SPX: 56 mph

How Much Weight Could a Sea-Doo SPX Hold?

The total weight capacity of the Sea-Doo SPX was 352 pounds.

How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo SPX Hold?

The Sea-Doo SPX utilized a 9-gallon fuel tank.

What Size was the Sea-Doo SPX?

The Sea-Doo SPX was 100 inches long, 41.5 inches wide, and 36.2 inches high.

How Many People Could Ride a Sea-Doo SPX?

The tiny Sea-Doo SPX was rated for two riders, but riding with an adult passenger on this ski was virtually impossible!

Did the Sea-Doo SPX Have Reverse?

No, the Sea-Doo SPX wasn’t equipped with reverse.

What Size Storage Compartment Did a Sea-Doo SPX Have?

The Sea-Doo SPX featured only a small front storage unit.

Could the Sea-Doo SPX Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?

No, the Sea-Doo SPX wasn’t recommended for tow sports.

Was a Sea-Doo SPX a 2-Stroke Ski?

Yes, the Sea-Doo SPX utilized a 2-stroke twin engine.

How Much is a Sea-Doo SPX Worth?

It’s hard to tell the exact price of a Sea-Doo SPX, as it strongly depends on its year, condition, and location. But as a rule of thumb, the prices typically range from $500 up to $5,000.

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