I have both, decide what you want, I have cast well in excess of 200 yards with both reels, but the Penn retrieves much quicker, and the clutch is considerably more powerful and smoother as well. The Abu will handle lighter weights, and is a joy to use in the levelwind version with a light/bass rod and 3 oz of lead in the surf. I have caught cod to 22lb on a 6000c abu, and rays to the mid doubles on the 525 so take your pick. The Penn will handle bigger fish, and more importanty, FASTER fish. Price depends on what you know about the dealers wife!!! I'm not sure where the idea that the Penn sits higher on the rod than the Abu comes from, mine doesn't. For ultralong range work I use the reel mounted low and use coaster fittings, some "experts" don't like them, make your own mind up and ignore the experts who are not willing to get out and show what they mean, or are biased by being a "consultant"
Philthefish