Cheaper to buy outboard or inboard?

[bowman316]

I was just thinking about how expensive new outboard engines are, and got to thinking about the price differences between the two types of engines.

Do you think that the price of a new inboard engine and outdrive would be cheaper than a new outboard?

I think new outboards are at least 12 grand. An inboard engine might be 2 grand, right?


I just don't get why outboards are so expensive.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Cheaper to buy outboard or inboard?

There is more to an inboard drive than just an engine block. How much to you think the transmission, drive shaft, stuffing box and rudder would set you back?

 

[bowman316]

Re: Cheaper to buy outboard or inboard?

well with an i/o all you really need is the drive and the engine, right?

 

[jdsgrog]

Re: Cheaper to buy outboard or inboard?

What are you looking to do? Repower? Buy a new boat? There are advantages and disadvantages to both, and you can search on the forum for those. Personally, I would never buy new. I'd prefer older outboard motors...buy them at a fraction of the cost and easier to work on than the new ones. But that's my preference. Really depends on your application.

 

[jevery]

Re: Cheaper to buy outboard or inboard?

I believe the new I/Os and inboards have cats now which has no doubt narrowed the cost difference.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Cheaper to buy outboard or inboard?

well with an i/o all you really need is the drive and the engine, right?

Compare the cost of having a new 200HP outboard installed and a complete, new 200HP I/O and you'll find the cost difference is not a great as you may think.

You can't put a price on the versitilty an outboard offers. Freezing weather, shallow water, the list goes on and on.

 

[coolguy147]

Re: Cheaper to buy outboard or inboard?

i know for sure that the outboard will be a lot less if not cheaper maintence.

you dont have to buy brand new?

 

[bowman316]

Re: Cheaper to buy outboard or inboard?

i'm not looking to buy anything.
I was just asking the question.
because I know you can get a car engine for 2 grand or so.
but new outboards are like 12- 15 grand, if not more.

seems like someone could make an outboard for cheaper. undercut the market.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Cheaper to buy outboard or inboard?

i'm not looking to buy anything.
I was just asking the question.
because I know you can get a car engine for 2 grand or so.
but new outboards are like 12- 15 grand, if not more.

seems like someone could make an outboard for cheaper. undercut the market.

They did, it was called a Force. Wouldn't run one if you paid me.

 

[Wingedwheel]

Re: Cheaper to buy outboard or inboard?

I have one of each. '96 Searay 19.5' w/4.3 ,mercruiser outdrive. Currently on outboard, a 1980 Stinger 17.5' W/'73 Mercury 850. I do my own maintenance and that alone saves me a TON of money. There's alot of good deals out there right now and if your savvy enough to take care of the basics, you'll get many years of (Iwon't say inexpensive) boating fun. I usually buy a boat with an outboard every few years. Get it just like I want it then sell it and start over.