Outboard Engine Buyer’s Guide
Today, BoatTEST launches its latest consumer research library – the BoatTEST Outboard Engine Buyer’s Guide. This guide covers 232 internal combustion engines that range from 2.3-hp to 627-hp manufactured by 7 major brands. We cover 22 data points, plus provide links to tests and reviews that BoatTEST has conducted on those engines, in addition to links to the engine makers’ websites.
This comprehensive buyer’s guide is intended to help BoatTEST members sort through all of the information available on these engines in one easy-to-access place. Our “comparison” feature also allows BoatTEST members to select engines for side-by-side data comparisons.
All outboard engines are not the same. Each has its own unique set of features and benefits, strengths and weaknesses. However – without exception – they are all relatively expensive for their horsepower rating. Wise consumers would do well to thoroughly research all engines in their horsepower category to find the best fit for their individual application.
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New Captain’s Report
Pardo Yachts 43:
Bold Styling in a Functional Dayboat
The striking profile of the Pardo Yachts 43 is a creation of Italian atelier Zuccheri Yacht Design in Bologna, Italy, and is built by Cantiere del Pardo, an Italian builder in Forlì. The axe bow is aimed at splitting waves, while the extended sharp chines help keep spray down. The raked, curved windshield and carbon fiber T-top add protection from the elements. This is a special vessel for a special owner.
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Test Video
Evinrude E-TEC G2 175 HP:
Only Evinrude Has Direct
Injection Under 350-HP
One of the secrets to Evinrude E-TEC G2’s engine fuel economy is its direct fuel injection into the cylinder. The injector system itself (seen in the photo at top) is generally agreed in the industry to be the best concept used by any outboard company, because it is like a hi-fi audio speaker that can vibrate 6,000 times a second or just a few times. With precise fuel metering and also placing the charge very close to the spark plug in a domed chamber, ignition is complete. The result is high efficiency, getting maximum range from minimal fuel, as well as very quick response to throttle changes and an exceptionally eco-friendly engine.
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Test Video
MAKO® Pro 21 Skiff CC:
Inverted V Bow Doesn’t Sneeze
The MAKO® Pro Skiff 21 CC has an “Advanced Inverted V” design aimed at eliminating the tendency of some square-bowed boats to “sneeze” spray over the bow in some sea conditions. The concave pocket shown in pink here captures the spray and directs it aft between the sponsons, rather than forward over the bow. The design, along with the boat’s minimal 2,200-lb. (998 kg) dry weight, allow it to float in just 8” (20.3 cm) of water, a huge advantage in fishing shallow flats as well as greatly reducing the chances of running aground while underway.
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Captain's Report
Hatteras GT65 Carolina:
New Hull Design and Construction
The new Hatteras GT65 Carolina has a new hull shape for Hatteras with a tunnel design which minimizes her draft. Utilizing high-tech Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis, Hatteras engineers optimized the hull form to improve performance, handling, and seaworthiness. In addition, the all-composite hull and stringer system will be infused as a single part, an industry first in a yacht of this size according to the company. While her primary mission is bluewater tournament fishing, being a convertible, she should also be a go-anywhere/anytime cruising yacht as well.
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Test Video
Yamaha SX190:
High-Tech Digital Helm
The helm of the Yamaha SX190 is clean and efficient thanks to digital multi-function read-outs. Included in the tach are scrollable parameters for gph, time to empty, distance to empty, fuel remaining, and more. The 4.3” Connext screen, center, provides critical information such as water depth, fuel level, RPM, compass heading, and miles per hour. The screen also serves as the entertainment hub of the boat, providing full access to radio and stereo controls, Bluetooth® connectivity, and USB connections. Note the cellphone holder to starboard, and the dual charging plugs.
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