1991-1992 Sea-Doo XP 580 Specs and Review [Video]

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The first-generation Sea-Doo XP 580 (or 587) is one of the most iconic PWCs in history. This model debuted in late 1990 and remained in production through 1992.

If you want to learn all about this legendary machine, this post is for you.

We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know into this Sea-Doo XP 580 review!

Sea-Doo XP 580 Review

The history of Sea-Doo musclecrafts started in 1991 when the first Sea-Doo XPs hit dealerships. This legendary Sea-Doo line went through four generations, which were as follows:

You can learn about all other generations by following the links above!

1991 Sea-Doo XP 580 Review

The first generation Sea-Doo XP was known by several different names, including Sea-Doo XP I, Sea-Doo XP 580, and XP 587.

Each of these names referred to the same machine, which was actually a Sea-Doo SP with more features and a twin-carb power mill as well as a tuned exhaust.

The power source of the 1991 Sea-Doo XP was the Rotax “Yellow” 587 engine. This unit was a 580cc, 2-stroke twin featuring two Mikuni carbs, CDI ignition, and an advanced oil injection system.

Thanks to the dual carburetor configuration and a tuned exhaust pipe, this Yellow 580 engine option cranked out 56 HP at 5,750 RPM. In contrast, the basic single-carb SP offered only 50 HP at 5750 RPM.

These two models shared the same fiberglass platform measuring 96 inches in length, 41.5 inches in width, and 36.2 inches in height. Compared to today’s flagship models, the differences are more than staggering:

1991-1992 Sea-Doo XP vs. Sea-Doo RXT-X

1991-1992 Sea-Doo XP vs. Sea-Doo RXT-X

Due to its small dimensions, the XP was very nimble and offered a lively riding experience.

The top speed of the first generation Sea-Doo XP was about 45 mph under ideal conditions. Riding at this speed, its 8.7-gallon fuel tank offered a cruising time of 1.3 hours.

Standard features included a safety lanyard, dual mirrors, small control panel, tool kit, tow hook, front and rear eyes, and deck mats. Regarding gauges, the ski utilized an electric tachometer and an electric fuel level gauge with a low-oil lamp.

Under the front hood, there was a small watertight storage unit with a removable plastic basket.

Unlike the predecessor 1990 SP, the new XP came equipped with a rear grab handle, which was a game-changer for deep-water reboarding.

The dry weight of the machine was only 365 pounds, while the load limit was 352 pounds. As you can imagine, this tiny ski was only recommended for solo rides!

Aside from its limited capacities, another drawback of this machine was its lack of a trim system, which caused the hull to “porpoise.”

Despite this, its high-performance engine and advanced features made the XP instantly popular among riders.

Therefore, it was no surprise that the manufacturer upgraded the model for the following season.

1992 Sea-Doo XP 580 Review

The 1992 Sea-Doo XP returned with some new features and an upgraded engine, but the body and propulsion were carried over without any significant changes.

For this model year, Sea-Doo dropped the “Yellow” Rotax 587 engine and replaced it with the more advanced “White” Rotax 587 engine.

Compared to the Yellow, the new White 587 was designed with a more advanced cooling system and different exhaust manifolds. The electrical system also saw some upgrades as the MAG housing got a better design and more effective cooling.

The the engine’s other features remained unchanged.

Surprisingly, according to the official operator’s manual, the dual-carb White Rotax 587 engine only cranked out 56 HP at 6250 RPM in the 1992 Sea-Doo XP.

Although the new engine was rated for less horsepower, it offered about the same top speed (45 mph) as its predecessor.

Another remarkable change on the 1992 XP was the manual trim system, which effectively reduced porpoising issues. The ski feadured a “trim knob” mounted on the left side of the top deck for setting the trim.

Aside from these differences, the 1991 and 1992 Sea-Doo models were basically identical.

1991 Sea-Doo XP 580 Specs Chart

For your convenience, we’ve compiled the 1991 Sea-Doo XP 580 specifications into these charts!

1991 Sea-Doo XP 580 Dimensions

Sea-Doo XP 580Dimensions and Capacities
Number of passengers1 operator and 1 passenger
Overall length244 cm (96 in)
Overall width105 cm (41.5 in)
Overall height92 cm (36.2 in)
Weight166 kg (365 lb)
Load limit160 kg (352 lb)
Hull MaterialComposite (fiberglass)
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)

1991 Sea-Doo XP 580 Engine Specs

Sea-Doo XP 580Engine 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 5.9 : 1
Maximum Power 41 kW (55 HP) at 5750 RPM
Maximum Torque70 Nm (51 lbf.ft) at 5250 RPM
RPM Limiter Operation @6500 RPM ± 200
Cooling TypeWater cooled, total loss type - Direct flow from propulsion unit
Overheating Beeper, Switch On @96-99 °C (205-210°F)

1991 Sea-Doo XP 580 Propulsion

Sea-Doo XP 580Propulsion
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 - type C gear lube
Pivoting angle of direction (nozzle)~ 28°
Pivoting angle of variable trim systemN.A.
Minimum required water level for jet pump60 cm (2 ft)
Impeller Diameter139.5 mm (5.49 in)

1991 Sea-Doo XP 580 Electrical Features

Sea-Doo XP 580Electrical Specs
Magneto generator output160 W @ 5500 RPM
Ignition system type Capacitor Discharge Ignition (Breakerless)
Spark plug - Make and typeNGK BR7ES
Spark plug - Gap0.6 mm (0.024 in)
Starting systemElectric starter
Ignition timing - BTDC2.18 mm (0.086 in) (19 ° ± 2°)
Ignition timing - NoteChecked with engine cold. Marks must align @ 6000 RPM)
Battery12 V, 20 A
Starting system Fuse 8 A
Charging system Fuse15 A
Gauges Fuse 2 A

1991 Sea-Doo XP 580 Carburation

Sea-Doo XP 580Carburation
Fuel - typeRegular unleaded gasoline
Carburetor - type and numberDiaphragm type P/N 270 500 093 (MAG side)
Diaphragm type P/N 270 500 092 (PTO side)
Carburetor adjustments - Low-speed mixture screw~ 1- 1/4 turn
Carburetor adjustments - Idle speed1300 to 1500 RPM

1991 Sea-Doo XP 580 Performance

Sea-Doo XP 580Performance
Horsepower60
Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank without reserve~ 1.3 hours
Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank reserve~ 13 minutes
Maximum Speed *73 Kmh (45 mph) (39 knots)
* Top speed may vary depending on operator and passenger weight, water conditions, wind, current, altitude etc.

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

Sea-Doo XP Comparison Chart

We’ve also compared the key specs of the different Sea-Doo XP models head-to-head in one chart:

Gen.NameYearEngineccHPTop Speed (mph)Weigth (lbs)Hull Design
IXP 5801991"Yellow" 5875805545365I gen. SP
IXP 5801992"White" 5875805645365I gen. SP
IIXP 65019936576507045373II gen. SP
IIXP 650x1994657x6508050412II gen. SP
IIIXP 72019957177188550412X-4
IIIXP Limited 8001995787x RAVE786+11056434X-4
IIIXP 8001996787 RAVE78111056434X-4
IVXP 8001997787 RAVE78211056525Parabolic
IVXP Limited1998947 RAVE95113060551Parabolic
IVXP Limited1999947 RAVE95113060551Parabolic
IVXP Limited2000947 RAVE95113060561Parabolic
IVXP Limited2001947 RAVE95113060561Parabolic
IVXP Limited2002947 RAVE95113060561Parabolic
IVXP DI2003947 DI95113060561Parabolic
IVXP DI2004947 DI95113060605Parabolic

Vintage Sea-Doo XP 580 For Sale

If you are considering purchasing one, you probably want to know where to find a Sea-Doo XP 580 for sale. As this model vanished from the market in 1992, it’s already a collectible item, so finding one is not an easy task!

We recommend that you start your research on dedicated vintage 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 XP 580s 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 XP 587!

What is a Sea-Doo XP 580?

The Sea-Doo XP 580 was a popular 2-stroke sit-down jet ski manufactured by Bombardier. The model was known by various names, including:

  • Sea-Doo XP 580
  • Sea-Doo XP 587
  • Sea-Doo XP I
  • First-generation Sea-Doo XP

What Kind of Engine Did the Sea-Doo XP 580 Have?

The Sea-Doo XP 580 engine was a 2-stroke, 580cc Rotax 587 twin featuring two Mikuni carburetors. In the 1991 model year, the model featured the “Yellow” Rotax 587 engine, which was replaced with the more advanced “White” Rotax 587 engine option for 2002.

How Much Horsepower Did a Sea-Doo XP 580 Have?

The 1991 Sea-Doo XP 580 powered by the “Yellow” Rotax 587 engine rated at 55 HP.

Could the Sea-Doo XP 580 Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?

Although it was equipped with a tow eye, the Sea-Doo XP 580 wasn’t recommended for tow sports.

What Year did Bombardier Make the Sea-Doo XP 580?

The Canadian manufacturer marketed the Sea-Doo XP 580 from 1991 through 1992.

Was a Sea-Doo XP 580 a 2-Stroke Ski?

Yes, the Sea-Doo XP 580 utilized a 2-stroke twin engine.

How Many People Could Ride a Sea-Doo XP 580?

The tiny Sea-Doo XP 580 was rated for two riders, but riding with a passenger on this tiny ski was virtually impossible!

How Much Weight Could a Sea-Doo XP 580 Hold?

The total weight capacity of the Sea-Doo XP 580 was 352 pounds.

What Size was the Sea-Doo XP 580?

The Sea-Doo XP 580 was 96 inches long, 41.5 inches wide, and 36.2 inches high.

How Much Did a Sea-Doo XP 580 Weigh?

The dry weight of the Sea-Doo XP 580 was only 365 pounds.

Did the Sea-Doo XP 580 Have Reverse?

No, the Sea-Doo XP 580 was manufactured without reverse.

What Size Storage Compartment Did a Sea-Doo XP 580 Have?

The Sea-Doo XP 580 featured only a tiny removable front storage bin.

How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo XP 580 Hold?

The Sea-Doo XP 580 utilized an 8.7-gallon fuel tank and a 0.74-gallon oil reservoir.

How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo XP 580 Use?

The Sea-Doo XP 580 fuel consumption was about 6-7 GPH at WOT.

How Fast Did a Sea-Doo XP 580 Go?

The top speed of a Sea-Doo XP 580 was 45 mph in stock condition.

How Much is a Sea-Doo XP 580 Worth?

It’s hard to tell the exact price of a Sea-Doo XP 580, as it strongly depends on its year, condition, and location. If you are lucky, you may find a neglected one for a couple of dollars. On the other end of the spectrum, there are restored Sea-Doo XP 580s with hefty price tags of $1,500-$2,000+.

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