The world of big outboard power is changing in this 2018 season. With the arrival of the V8 at Mercury, which is kicking this family and waiting for a hypothetical Honda, it's time to get to grips with these engines.
To fully understand the offer of different engine manufacturers in the 300 horsepower segment, we confronted the different characteristics of these engines. The figures speak for themselves and for those who can read behind this information, it is possible to discover which engine will be the most appropriate for their practice. Explanation of figures.
2 or 4 beats?
It is now known, only Evinrude continues to manufacture 2-stroke engines. To successfully pass the very stringent emission standards, this manufacturer opted for direct injection (an injector directly into the cylinder head). This construction avoids many mechanical parts such as valves, camshafts and timing chains or belts. Simpler mechanics with increased reliability? Not necessarily, because now the 4-stroke technology is very well mastered and very reliable.
Displacement for torque
A large displacement allows you to have torque. This is important on an outboard to provide recovery and to keep the engine running even when cornering. On this chapter Mercury puts everyone in agreement with a 4.6 litre engine. More than a liter more than the Evinrude..
Beware of weight
Installed on the transom, the engine is exactly in the wrong place. The less heavy it is, the less the hull of the boat will have to be wide and load-bearing. In this field, Mercury has achieved a coup de force, because despite an engine with more cylinders (V8), more displacement and 4 strokes, it is the least heavy in the category. You'd think Evinrude would do better in two steps, but he doesn't.
A powerful enough alternator
More and more electrical consumers are installed on our boats. This is especially the case on boats equipped for fishing which do not deprive themselves of large electronic screens. The alternator must therefore be large enough to maintain the battery charge even at idle.
The price, but not only
Attention, you look at this table and you say: I buy the cheapest... Why not, but this figure hides another point that must also be taken into account: the service! Indeed, what would be the best engine if it is not installed and monitored by a good dealer? Price is one thing, but the service that goes with it is another that is not quantifiable, but that is important.
However, let us note the performance of Mercury which manages to have a particularly attractive call price in its Four Stroke range (basic range).
The guarantee
On this point, Evinrude agrees: 10 years warranty! This shows that this manufacturer has confidence in its engines. Bravo!
Which one do I buy?
Lightweight, with a big displacement so torque, not expensive, the all-new Mercury V8 has many assets under the hood. By comparing the figures, he is the winner of this comparison of 300 horsepower engine.
