Speedboat advice(engines and drives)

[Erock]

I'm not quite sure if this is the right section of the forum to post this question, but I would like some advise from the techs that work or have worked on a variety of motors and drives. I am looking to buy a speedboat for a restoration project. Anything from the 60's to possibly the early 90's. My question is what engines and drives(I/O or outboards)should I say away from? I know this is a very broad question but I figured there are enough people on these forums that I could get a good general idea. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,..... Ya can't go wrong if ya find a Chevy based V-motor, hooked to a Mercruiser, or Volvo drive,.....

 

[stonyloam]

Ya know there are a lot of really cool old outboard runabouts from the 60's. An outboard would be a way easier (and less expensive) restoration project, if this is your first project. Take a look here for ideas: http://www.antiqueboatamerica.com/ab_list_boatNew.asp?Left=ForSale&Type=ViewBoat&BoatId=35856

 

[Walt T]

Jet drives with a 455 Olds are a fast combination