The Most Reliable Older Snowmobile: A Ranking of Dependable Models
Voting rules: Choose the snowmobile you think is the most reliable!
Jun 16, 2023 10:18 (Updated on Dec 3, 2023 10:00)
Welcome to StrawPoll, your ultimate destination for determining the most reliable older snowmobile! As the winter season approaches, it's time to crown the undisputed champion of vintage snowmobiles. We've curated a list of time-tested, sturdy, and powerful machines that have stood the test of time, carving their way through the snow-capped landscapes. Now, it's your turn to join in and cast your vote or suggest a hidden gem that deserves to join our icy hall of fame. With thousands of polls and rankings on various topics, StrawPoll promises an exciting journey through nostalgia and performance. So, bundle up, hop on your sled, and let's discover together the ultimate winter ride!
What Is the Most Reliable Older Snowmobile?
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166votes
PekePON · CC BY-SA 3.0Yamaha Vmax 4
YamahaThe Vmax 4 was produced from 1992-1996 and is known for its durability and reliability. It was Yamaha's first four-cylinder snowmobile engine and was designed to handle tough terrain.DescriptionThe Yamaha Vmax 4 is a powerful and reliable snowmobile that was first introduced in the early 1990s. It is known for its exceptional performance and durability, making it a favorite among snowmobile enthusiasts.- Engine: 1049cc, liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, 4-cylinder
- Power: 175 horsepower
- Suspension: Independent, double-wishbone front suspension
- Track length: 15 inches
- Fuel capacity: 11.6 gallons
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247votes
Polaris Indy
Polaris IndustriesThe Polaris Indy was produced from 1983-1997 and is considered a classic snowmobile. It was known for its reliability and versatility and is still popular among snowmobilers today.DescriptionThe Polaris Indy is a well-established and highly regarded snowmobile model that has gained a reputation for its dependability and durability. It is a versatile and capable machine designed for a variety of riding conditions.- Engine Type: Two-stroke, liquid-cooled
- Cylinder Configuration: Twin
- Displacement: Various options (ranging from 340cc to 800cc)
- Suspension: Front: Independent A-arm; Rear: Progressive rate, adjustable torque
- Track Length: Various options (ranging from 121 inches to 136 inches)
Polaris Indy in other rankings- Position 2 of 10 in Most reliable snowmobile ever made
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323votes
Ski-Doo MXZ
BRPThe Ski-Doo MXZ was produced from 1994-2003 and is known for its handling and performance. It was designed for trail riding and is still a popular choice among snowmobilers.DescriptionThe Ski-Doo MXZ is a popular snowmobile known for its performance and versatility. It is manufactured by BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products), a leading producer of recreational vehicles.- Engine: Rotax 850 E-TEC, liquid-cooled, 2-stroke engine
- Suspension: R-Motion rear suspension and RAS 3 front suspension
- Track Length: 137 inches
- Fuel Capacity: 9.5 gallons
- Cooling System: Liquid-cooled
Ski-Doo MXZ in other rankings- Position 3 of 10 in Most reliable snowmobile ever made
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular snowmobile
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420votes
Arctic Cat ZR
Arctic CatThe Arctic Cat ZR was produced from 1993-2006 and is known for its speed and agility. It was designed for racing and is still a popular choice among snowmobilers who enjoy high-speed riding.DescriptionThe Arctic Cat ZR is a high-performance snowmobile designed for maximum comfort and rideability. It offers a smooth and exhilarating experience, making it one of the most comfortable snowmobiles to ride.- Engine: 8000 C-TEC2, 2-stroke
- Power: Up to 165 horsepower
- Suspension: FOX® ZERO QS3 shocks
- Track: 15x129-inch Cobra
- Brakes: Race radial master cylinder hydraulic brake
Arctic Cat ZR in other rankings- Position 4 of 10 in Most reliable snowmobile ever made
- Position 8 of 10 in Most comfortable snowmobile to ride
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512votes
Yamaha Phazer
YamahaThe Yamaha Phazer was produced from 1984-2001 and is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It was designed for trail riding and is still a popular choice among snowmobilers who want an affordable and dependable sled.DescriptionThe Yamaha Phazer is a highly regarded snowmobile known for its exceptional comfort during rides. It is designed to provide a smooth and enjoyable experience for riders of all skill levels. With its sleek and modern design, the Phazer offers both style and functionality.- Engine Type: 4-stroke, 499cc, 2-cylinder
- Power: 80 horsepower
- Suspension: Independent, double wishbone front suspension, ProComfort rear suspension
- Track Length: 121 inches
- Track Width: 15 inches
Yamaha Phazer in other rankings- Position 5 of 10 in Most reliable snowmobile ever made
- Position 9 of 10 in Most comfortable snowmobile to ride
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611votes
Polaris XC
Polaris IndustriesThe Polaris XC was produced from 1997-2006 and is known for its handling and performance. It was designed for cross-country racing and is still a popular choice among snowmobilers who want a high-performance sled.DescriptionThe Polaris XC is a well-known snowmobile model that was manufactured by Polaris Industries. It is often praised for its reliable performance and durability, making it a popular choice among snowmobile enthusiasts. The XC is specifically designed for off-trail riding and offers a smooth and comfortable experience even in challenging terrains. Its powerful engine and advanced suspension system ensure excellent maneuverability and control. Overall, the Polaris XC is a reliable and capable snowmobile that provides an enjoyable riding experience in various snow conditions.- Seat: Single rider
- Engine Type: 2-stroke twin-cylinder
- Displacement: 600cc
- Horsepower: up to 120 HP
- Track Length: 121 - 136 inches
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78votesThe Ski-Doo Formula was produced from 1990-2001 and is known for its handling and versatility. It was designed to handle a variety of terrain and is still a popular choice among snowmobilers.DescriptionThe Ski-Doo Formula is a series of snowmobiles known for their reliability and performance. They were produced by Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), a Canadian company that specializes in the manufacturing of powersports vehicles.
- Engine: Various 2-stroke and 4-stroke engine options
- Suspension: Front: Dual A-arm; Rear: SC-10 with HPG shocks
- Track Length: 121 to 136 inches
- Weight: Approximately 500 to 600 pounds
- Fuel Capacity: Approximately 10 to 11 gallons
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87votes
Arctic Cat Panther
Arctic CatThe Arctic Cat Panther was produced from 1970-2009 and is known for its reliability and affordability. It was designed for utility and touring and is still a popular choice among snowmobilers who want a dependable sled.DescriptionThe Arctic Cat Panther is a classic snowmobile known for its reliability and durability. It has been a popular choice for winter enthusiasts since its introduction in the 1970s. With a strong and trusted reputation, the Panther continues to provide a smooth and enjoyable riding experience in various snow conditions.- Engine Type: 2-stroke or 4-stroke options available
- Engine Displacement: Ranges from 370cc to 794cc
- Cylinders: 2 or 3 cylinders
- Track Length: Between 121 inches to 141 inches
- Suspension: Front and rear suspension for a comfortable ride
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914votes
Hezery99 at English Wikipedia · Public domainYamaha Exciter
YamahaThe Yamaha Exciter was produced from 1987-1993 and is known for its handling and performance. It was designed for high-speed riding and is still a popular choice among snowmobilers who want a powerful sled.DescriptionThe Yamaha Exciter is a popular and reliable older model snowmobile that was produced by Yamaha. It is designed to deliver a thrilling and high-performance winter riding experience. With its powerful engine and durable construction, the Exciter has become a favorite choice among snowmobiling enthusiasts around the world.- Engine Type: 2-stroke, liquid-cooled
- Displacement: 570cc
- Cylinders: 2
- Carburetion: Dual VM 34
- Ignition: CDI
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102votes
Polaris Classic
Polaris IndustriesThe Polaris Classic was produced from 1999-2006 and is known for its handling and comfort. It was designed for touring and is still a popular choice among snowmobilers who want a sled that is comfortable and easy to ride.DescriptionThe Polaris Classic is a popular and reliable older model snowmobile that provides a smooth and comfortable riding experience. It is designed to tackle various terrains and endure harsh weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts and recreational riders alike.- Engine: 2-stroke, liquid-cooled
- Displacement: 500cc
- Fuel Delivery: Carbureted
- Suspension: Independent Front Suspension (IFS) and Rear Suspension
- Track Length: 121 inches
Missing your favorite snowmobile?
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Discussion
Ranking factors for reliable older Snowmobile
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ManufacturerSome snowmobile manufacturers have a reputation for producing more reliable machines than others. Brands like Yamaha, Ski-Doo, and Arctic Cat are generally considered to be reliable.
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AgeGenerally speaking, the newer the snowmobile, the more reliable it is likely to be. That being said, there are many older snowmobiles that are still highly reliable.
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ModelLike manufacturers, specific models of snowmobiles can be more or less reliable than others. It's important to do research on the specific model you're considering to find out its reputation for reliability.
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MaintenanceThe way a snowmobile has been maintained is a crucial factor in determining its reliability. A well-maintained snowmobile is far more likely to be reliable than one that has been neglected.
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UsageThe amount and type of use a snowmobile has had can impact its reliability. A snowmobile that has been used heavily for racing or extreme backcountry riding may be less reliable than one that has been used primarily for recreational riding on groomed trails.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most reliable older Snowmobile. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or snowmobile is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1912 views
- 210 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each snowmobile once every 24 hours. The rank of each snowmobile is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most reliable older snowmobile
When it comes to snowmobiling, there's nothing quite like the thrill of hitting the powder on an older model sled. However, with so many different makes and models out there, it can be tough to know which ones are the most reliable. Fortunately, there are a few standout snowmobiles that have stood the test of time and earned a reputation for being dependable, affordable, and fun to ride. Whether you're a seasoned snowmobile enthusiast or a newbie looking to get into the sport, this guide will help you find the most reliable older snowmobiles on the market. So, sit back, buckle up, and get ready to learn about the best sleds for your winter adventures!
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