Help me compare.. 4 cyls vs 6 cyls?

[AdamLotz]

Hi guys - quick background: Got a 19 foot center console with a '94 120 force on it. It is a little slow (~30 mph) but runs great - I'd like to repower while I can casually browse for a good deal.<br /><br />I'm looking in the 1998-2002 range. Boat is factory rated for 150 hp, but coast guard forumla says 205.<br /><br />In my budget, it looks like I can pick up a 2000-2002 4 cyl merc, or a 1998-2001 6 cyl. <br /><br />Can anyone give me some pros and cons of the two? My usage is varied - I have a ~25 minute low speed (1400-1800 rpm) trip out to the ocean, where usually I'm either going balls out or scoping things out at 8-10 mph. Some trolling in the open ocean as well.<br /><br />Fuel economy is less of a concern for me than reliability. Weight is a slight concern, and in the used market I've noticed it's easier to find a 200 hp than a 150 hp engine, and they weigh the same...so ironically I guess my choices are either a 125/135 hp or a 200, lol. I thought the 4 cyls would actually be a better choice because they'd be simpler, but then I started reading about this 2+2 nonsense and some other quirks and now I'm not sure. A "quieter" engine would be nice, too.<br /><br />Thoughts? Is there something that should make me lean towards the 4 cyls? Any particular years/models to avoid? Is it stupid to buy a used 150 when a used 200 is $200 more? I'm thinking carburated for the easier maintenance and cheaper price...

 

[AdamLotz]

Re: Help me compare.. 4 cyls vs 6 cyls?

Ok, sorry, let me summarize: Are there any good reasons to pay ~$3600 for a used 4 cyl 125 hp, when for ~$3800 I can get a used 6 cyl 200 hp?

 

[JasonJ]

Re: Help me compare.. 4 cyls vs 6 cyls?

I say get the 200 horse six banger. You don't have to use all the power, and the engine will appreciate being able to cruise rather than running wide open all the time. I am a big fan of getting the most power that the boat/wallet can handle. Better to have the power and not use it than to not have the power and need it, especially out on the ocean...

 

[Nos4r2]

Re: Help me compare.. 4 cyls vs 6 cyls?

I'd go with JasonJ on that one-though I would have a very careful look at the transom. Maybe there's a reason the factory and the coastguard formula don't match up. I'd also make sure that you're covered by your insurance to exceed factory specs or you may end up in a world of hurt. (a few phone calls without giving your name should be able to determine this)<br /><br />More power is always good!

 

[AdamLotz]

Re: Help me compare.. 4 cyls vs 6 cyls?

There were some interesting articles posted on Boston Whaler's site about the CG recommended HP vs reality, with respect to how the #s are determined, liability, legality, etc. They were all surprisingly in favor of putting whatever you want on the back.<br /><br />My concerns with the transom are 99% weight related.. and if I would hang a 150 on there without thinking twice... most 200s weigh exactly the same.