Optimax vs. E-TEC

[SeaNymph Man]

Not trying to start an arguement here,but just curious to know which motor
you think is best. Which motor would you trust over the other? Let's go with Optimax and E-TEC motors from 75 HP on up,okay! I used to be an Evinrude
guy,but went back to Mercury for personal reasons,...(a little 15 HP Mercury
four stroke WITH a Yamaha powerhead). If I had a larger boat rated for at least 75 to 90 HP,my choice would be the Optimax motor. Now for your input!
Remember,..let's keep it civil,...no fighting amongst each other,okay! Everyone will have their own opinion,of course,...that's to be expected.

 

[NelsonQ]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

Currently have a Johnson but I`ll say Merc simply because my new boat has a 175HP Optimax on it. Why? Because the dealer I bought the boat from is a Merc dealer, and personally, I'd have no issues with an Optimax or an E-TEC on the back.

Both are great motors, if they're maintained.

 

[riptide09]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

I've never owner a Merc. I always have owner Evinrude's and Johnson's. Never been towed back. I'll stick with what I know and trust, E-TEC all the way.

 

[seahorse5]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

Both are very good motors, your decision should also be based on the local servicing dealer.

The E-TEC is as quiet as a 4-stroke and the Opti is much louder. The Opti may get a bit better fuel economy at a particular rpm setting, but overall the E-TEC and Opti are about the same since E-TEC is more economical in the lower rpm ranges where much of your use is. Opti uses more oil, but that isn't much of a selling point.

Service costs are much less with Evinrude as it has a longer service interval and fewer parts.

Don't let the fanatics on this forum or any others say that their motor is the only one. Both are good engines now that Opti has all its earlier bugs and problems taken care of.

 

[MercGuy]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

I've never owned either, but if my trusty 1998 Merc 115 2 stroke ever dies (not very likely ) ...

E-Tec would be my first choice.

One important reason to me is that the Opti-Max design requires a strong battery with high cranking amps to spin the engine fast enough to get the compressor working.

E-Tec on the other hand can still be rope started if your battery dies. I've only rope started my outboard 3 times during the last 12 years, but in each case it was damn important that I got started.

My $0.02...

 

[DJ]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

Both are terrific options. Especially the latest versions.

I would not hesitate on either except for dealer support. I'm a J/E guy but my dealer of choice sells Merc. Merc, I go.

 

[ChrisAG]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

I agree they are both good choices, but having seen both at the Toronto Boat Show I can't say I like the extra bulk of the Mercury. I suppose the compressor and belts in the Optimax means the motors are physically larger. I'm not exaggerating here, the 90 Optimax was larger than the Evinrude 200.

 

[NelsonQ]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

I agree they are both good choices, but having seen both at the Toronto Boat Show I can't say I like the extra bulk of the Mercury. I suppose the compressor and belts in the Optimax means the motors are physically larger. I'm not exaggerating here, the 90 Optimax was larger than the Evinrude 200.

By comparison, I just purchased a 175HP Optimax....its actually 2 lbs lighter than the Evinrude. haven't seen them side by side but I think they're all in the same range.

 

[ChrisAG]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

I wasn't talking weight, but bulk. The Mercury was taller, wider and deeper than the equivallent Evinrude, which is an aesthetic and practical consideration for some people.

 

[RotaryRacer]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

I agree they are both good choices, but having seen both at the Toronto Boat Show I can't say I like the extra bulk of the Mercury. I suppose the compressor and belts in the Optimax means the motors are physically larger. I'm not exaggerating here, the 90 Optimax was larger than the Evinrude 200.

I think you have the Verado confused with the Opti-Max.

The Verado is a 4 stroke, supercharged motor. The Opti-Max is a 2 stroke direct injected motor.

 

[milehighboater]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

Just a quick note, I have a 75 hp 2-stroke merc that is 11 years old now and haven't had a single problem with it no maintance other than gear oil, plugs, and impeller. Starts every time and flies down the lake. I don't know about the ETECs.

 

[ChrisAG]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

I think you have the Verado confused with the Opti-Max.

The Verado is a 4 stroke, supercharged motor. The Opti-Max is a 2 stroke direct injected motor.

I know, but neither Verado or Optimax are what you might call svelt - the Verado has its valves and plumbing, the Optimax has its belts and compressor. End result = big.

 

[oldgradywhite]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

One word "E TEC" all the way. Way less parts. No belts. No compressors and made in the usa.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Optimax vs. E-TEC

E-Tec vs Opti - I (as always) agree with Seahorse. My opinion - if you're looking at either under warranty, it all comes down to dealer ability but the nod (obviously) goes to E-Tec. Looking at the same type motors after the warranty is over - Yamaha HPDI takes over (especially HPDI II), no question. And that really pains me to say.