The Bayliner 3870 Motoryacht, later renamed the 3888 Motoryacht, stands as one of the most successful and enduring diesel cruisers of its era. Produced from the mid-1970s through the mid-1990s, this vessel cemented its reputation by offering an unparalleled combination of space, comfort, and, critically, efficient diesel power at an attractive price.
Table Of Content
- ⚓ The Core Identity: Bayliner 3870 Specifications
- Key Dimensions and Capacity
- The Innovative Mid-Cabin Layout
- ⛽ Performance and Efficiency: Bayliner 3870 Fuel Consumption
- Early Engine Packages
- Fuel Consumption Metrics
- ⚠️ Known Challenges: Bayliner 3870 Problems
- 💰 The Value Proposition: Bayliner 3870 Price and Market
- Current Market Pricing (Approximate USD)
- 📝 Bayliner 3870 Review: Enduring Popularity
- ❓ 5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Bayliner 3870
- 1. What years was the Bayliner 3870 Motoryacht produced?
- 2. Is the 1985 Bayliner 3870 specs different from later models?
- 3. What is the most important factor when determining the Bayliner 3870 price?
- 4. Is the Bayliner 3870 fuel consumption really better than similar boats?
- 5. What are the common hull problems for the Bayliner 3870?
For buyers seeking a liveaboard or extended cruiser that balances affordability with functional layout, the search for a Bayliner 3870 for sale remains highly active. This comprehensive article explores the Bayliner 3870 specs, analyzes its renowned fuel consumption, discusses common ownership problems, and reviews its enduring popularity.
⚓ The Core Identity: Bayliner 3870 Specifications
The Bayliner 3870 was designed around an innovative mid-cabin layout and a fuel-efficient semi-displacement hull, setting it apart from competitors’ heavier, faster, but often thirstier planing hulls.
Key Dimensions and Capacity
The following Bayliner 3870 specifications generally apply to the models produced between the late 1970s and 1980s:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Centerline Length | $38 text{ ft } 2 text{ in } (11.63 text{ m})$ |
| Beam (Width) | $13 text{ ft } 5 text{ in } (4.09 text{ m})$ |
| Draft | $3 text{ ft } 2 text{ in } (0.97 text{ m})$ |
| Dry Weight / Displacement | $17,500 text{ to } 19,608 text{ lbs}$ |
| Hull Type | Modified-V, Semi-Displacement |
| Fuel Capacity | $304 text{ to } 390 text{ U.S. Gallons}$ (Diesel) |
| Water Capacity | $80 text{ U.S. Gallons}$ |
| Accommodations | 2 Staterooms, 2 Heads (one with a tub/shower) |
The Innovative Mid-Cabin Layout
The most defining feature of the Bayliner 3870 is its mid-cabin floorplan. The double berth in the guest stateroom extends cleverly under the main salon sole, maximizing space and allowing for a generous master stateroom forward, two heads (one with a full shower/tub), and a spacious salon with a standard lower helm station. This utilization of space is a primary reason for the boat’s excellent long-term review scores. Skilso 975 Flybridge Motor Yacht, Details & Specs
⛽ Performance and Efficiency: Bayliner 3870 Fuel Consumption
One of the greatest advantages of the Bayliner 3870 is its diesel power and semi-displacement hull form, leading to remarkable fuel consumption figures for a boat of this size.
Early Engine Packages
The original models, including the notable 1985 Bayliner 3870 specs, were typically powered by twin low-horsepower diesels:
- Original Power: Twin $130 text{ HP}$ Chrysler Mitsubishi 6-cylinder diesels.
Fuel Consumption Metrics
When operating in the efficient displacement mode, the Bayliner 3870 fuel consumption is exceptional:
| Operating Mode | Speed (Approx.) | Fuel Burn (Per Engine) | Total Fuel Burn (Approx.) | Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economical Displacement | $8 text{ to } 10 text{ mph}$ | $1.5 text{ GPH}$ | $3.0 text{ GPH}$ | $approx 3.0 text{ miles per gallon}$ |
| Cruising (Planing) | $14 text{ to } 16 text{ knots}$ | $approx 4.5 text{ GPH}$ | $approx 9.0 text{ GPH}$ | $approx 1.5 text{ miles per gallon}$ |
| Top End | $18 text{ to } 20 text{ knots}$ | N/A | $approx 15 text{ GPH}$ | $approx 1.0 text{ miles per gallon}$ |
Later models (3888) with the $175 text{ HP}$ U.S. Marine or $210 text{ HP}$ Hino diesels maintained this excellent efficiency, with many owners reporting cruising at or near the magic figure of $1 text{ mile per gallon}$ (MPG). This efficiency has kept the Bayliner 3870 popular with budget-conscious cruisers. Sea Ray 390 Motor Yacht: Luxury and Performance in One
⚠️ Known Challenges: Bayliner 3870 Problems
While celebrated for its value, any vessel of this age and production volume has common problems that buyers must consider during inspection and ownership.
- Engine Longevity and Spares:
- Chrysler/Mitsubishi/Hino Diesels: While originally reliable, these engines are out of production. Finding replacement parts, especially for the original Mitsubishi engines, can be challenging and expensive.
- Transom and Deck Coring:
- As with many production boats of the era, moisture intrusion into cored areas (decks, flybridge, and sometimes the transom) is a potential issue. A thorough pre-purchase survey to detect soft spots is non-negotiable.
- Original Window Leaks:
- Leaking side and front windows are a common complaint. The sealants and frames often degrade over time, leading to water intrusion into the salon and subfloor. This typically requires professional removal and resealing.
- Aging Systems:
- The electrical wiring, plumbing, and HVAC systems (if equipped) are nearing 40 years old. Buyers should expect and budget for replacement of hot water tanks, outdated electronics, and potentially the generator.
💰 The Value Proposition: Bayliner 3870 Price and Market
The market for a Bayliner 3870 for sale is robust, particularly in the Pacific Northwest and Great Lakes regions where they were immensely popular. The Bayliner 3870 price is one of its most attractive features, offering a large diesel cruiser for an affordable entry point.
Current Market Pricing (Approximate USD)
| Condition & Model Year | Estimated Bayliner 3870 Price | Key Factors Influencing Value |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | $35,000 – $50,000 | Older engines, dated interior, and deferred maintenance. |
| Mid-Range / Good Condition | $50,000 – $70,000 | Well-maintained engines, some interior/electronics upgrades, good hull integrity. |
| Premium / Fully Updated | $70,000 – $90,000+ | Full cosmetic refit, modern electronics suite, and potentially recent major mechanical work (e.g., turbo/heat exchanger service). |
Buyers should prioritize the condition of the engines, hull, and fuel tanks, as these represent the greatest potential repair expenses.
📝 Bayliner 3870 Review: Enduring Popularity
The overwhelming Bayliner 3870 review consensus is that the boat is a remarkable value package. It provides:
- Exceptional Interior Volume: The two-stateroom, two-head layout with a dedicated shower/tub stall is rare in this size class and makes it a highly functional family cruiser or liveaboard.
- Fuel Efficiency: The economical diesel power allows for extended cruising without massive fuel bills.
- Dual Helm Stations: The standard lower helm in the salon and the flybridge helm provide flexibility for all-weather operation.
While it is not a speed demon, the Bayliner 3870 provides a comfortable, stable platform that remains one of the best affordable options for diesel cruising today.
❓ 5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Bayliner 3870
1. What years was the Bayliner 3870 Motoryacht produced?
2. Is the 1985 Bayliner 3870 specs different from later models?
3. What is the most important factor when determining the Bayliner 3870 price?
4. Is the Bayliner 3870 fuel consumption really better than similar boats?
5. What are the common hull problems for the Bayliner 3870?
