Is a Seadoo Spark as Good as a Seadoo XP X4?

Where do I start?

This comparison is one of the biggest old vs new debates out there when it comes to 2 stroke vs 4 stroke and in particular lightweight playful skis. You have 3 camps: you have the die-hard 2 stroke XP X4 hull riders (particularly vocal about the 787 version), you have the new gen Spark Polytec riders... and then you have me who is in the middle experiencing both. And honestly, if you take one thing away from this blog, it's to embrace both for what they are and try not to define a winner, as it's basically impossible.

You're dealing with 30 years difference between the Spark and the original 1995 XP X4 720. Back in 1995 when the X4 hull was introduced, it was a game changer - the hull for many was the best hull Seadoo ever made, and when paired with the 787 engine in 1996, it created what many consider the ultimate performance combination. That 787 powerplant took everything great about the X4 platform and elevated it to legendary status. So really, how do you recreate and compete with that status? Honestly, it's a tall order... The X4 hull remained in the Seadoo lineup, albeit rebadged as the SPX right through to 1999, when the XP transitioned to the parabolic hull 951 XP design in 1998. It outraged many XP riders as they believed the X4 was still the hull to be on, especially those who had experienced the raw power of the 787 version (they ignore the 1997 800 XP parabolic as it's considered an underpowered model).

As for the Spark, first introduced in 2014 as the standard non-Trixx version, it was the first time we saw Seadoo really try to rekindle the spirit of the lightweight playful skis of the 90s. From 2005 onward, the hulls and skis got bigger and bigger with a slow departure from the lightweight play ethos. So to be fair to Seadoo, the Spark was a bold move to bring things back around to the 90s riding characteristics, though matching the performance benchmarks set by the 787 XP would prove challenging.

So did it work? The objective and fair answer is yes, but the enthusiast 2 stroke answer is not really 100%, especially when compared to the 787-powered models.

Let's break this down properly:

The X4 Hull Magic The X4 hull wasn't just good - it was revolutionary. At just 525 lbs wet and powered initially by the 720 Rotax engine, and later the legendary 787, it created combinations that many consider perfect. The 787 version in particular became the benchmark that all performance skis would be measured against. The hull's unique stepped design allowed for incredible bite in turns while maintaining that playful characteristic that made it so special. When you hit the water on an X4, particularly the 787 variant, there's an immediate connection - a raw, mechanical feel that modern electronics simply can't replicate.

The Spark Revolution Fast forward to 2014, and the Spark brought something entirely new to the table. The Polytec hull construction achieved something remarkable - a modern ski weighing in at just 405 lbs (in its 2-up configuration). The 90hp Rotax 900 ACE engine might not scream like a 2 stroke or match the blistering performance of the 787, but it delivers reliable, efficient power that meets modern emission standards while still being enjoyable.

Riding Experience: Old School vs New School

The X4 Experience:

• Raw, unfiltered feedback through the handlebars
• Aggressive turn-in that rewards skilled riders
• That distinctive 2 stroke power delivery that nothing else matches
• Particularly in 787 trim, acceleration and top-end performance that modern Sparks simply can't match
• A power-to-weight ratio that even today's most advanced Sparks struggle to approach
• Mechanical simplicity that makes maintenance straightforward
• A connected feeling that modern riders might find intimidating

The Spark Experience:

• More forgiving learning curve
• Modern safety features that make it more accessible
• Impressive fuel efficiency
• Lighter weight makes it easier to handle on and off water
• Modern conveniences like IBR (Intelligent Brake & Reverse)

The Real-World Comparison Here's where things get interesting. The Spark Trixx, especially in its latest iterations, comes closest to capturing that X4 magic. It's capable of things the X4 just struggles to do effortlessly - like the assisted stand-up wheelies that make everyone look like a pro. But when it comes to pure performance, the 787 version of the XP still outperforms it in raw acceleration and top speed. That combination of the proven X4 hull with the 787's power delivery created performance numbers that, even decades later, the Spark hasn't quite matched. It's a testament to just how ahead of its time that package was. Still, hit a perfect glass-calm morning on any X4, nail that perfect turn where the ski seems to read your mind, and you understand why people still search for these 25+ year old machines.

Cost Considerations

• X4: Rising prices due to collector interest (especially for 787 models), but parts still available
• Spark: More affordable new, with warranty and dealer support
• Running costs favour the Spark with better fuel economy
• Maintenance complexity favours the X4's simpler systems

The Verdict This is where I might ruffle some feathers, but here goes: The Spark is objectively the better ski for most riders. It's more accessible, more reliable, and more practical. But... the X4 offers something that can't be measured in specifications or performance numbers, and the 787 version in particular represents a high-water mark for raw performance that even modern watercraft struggle to surpass. It's like comparing a modern sports car to a classic - the new one is measurable better through the evolution of time and technology, but numbers don't lie and in this story the 717 and 787 hold their own to this day.

For pure riding enjoyment, a well-maintained X4 (especially the coveted 787) still offers a unique experience that even the best modern skis struggle to match. The Spark is brilliant at what it does, and it's probably the closest any modern ski has come to capturing that 90s magic, but it's different. Not better, not worse - different.

The real winner? Anyone who gets to experience both. Each represents the pinnacle of their respective eras, and both deserve respect for what they bring to the water. If you're lucky enough to ride both, you'll understand why this debate will never truly be settled.

‘Keeping these classics alive’!

Thanks for reading