Making a pricing comparison based on horsepower-a 250-horsepower outboard against a 250-horsepower sterndrive in the same boat-seems obvious, but it’s preferable to do it based on performance. These can be equipped with three or four outboard engines that, when combined, produce more power than the most powerful pair of sterndrive engines available, resulting in performance that was formerly unheard of.

Outboard motors are gaining favor on bigger cabin cruisers and day boats that were previously only fitted with inboard engines as outboard motors have gotten more powerful. Outboards range in power from 2-horsepower kickers to 600-horsepower monsters, but the normal range for family boating is 90-300 horsepower. A specialized marine engine that is mounted directly to the stern of a boat is known as an outboard motor. Sterndrives range in power from 200 to 430 horsepower, however many pre-owned tiny runabouts may be equipped with a 130-horsepower sterndrive that is no longer in production. A specialist watersports tow boat, with an inboard engine operating a propeller beneath the boat and steering control given by a rudder, would be an exception. Inboard family boats nearly generally have a sterndrive (also known as an inboard/outboard or I/O) powertrain, which combines an automotive-style engine located inside the boat with a steerable and trimmable drive unit mounted on the stern (rear). What are the Key Differences Between Inboard and Outboard Motors? It’s not uncommon to see three or four motors decorating the transoms of today’s bigger center consoles. To some extent, enthusiasts get around this by installing a second motor. You may securely tilt the prop out of the water at any moment while boating in shallow seas.īesides the above mentioned advantages, outboards lack the entire torque needed to operate bigger boats, despite their higher power to weight ratio. Outboard motors are preferred by fishermen, speedboat owners, and party captains because of their rapid handling, tight turn ratio, and low-speed maneuverability.

Simple winterizing procedure and space-saving storage.

There are several reasons to opt for an outboard engine: Outboard motors can be controlled through a dashboard console or a handle linked directly to the motor, depending on your preference. Mercury outboard motors are completely self-contained units that attach to the transom’s outside. Unfortunately there are some downsides for boats with inboard engines, such as:

Cutting through large ocean waves is also easier with a lower center of gravity. Wakeboarding and waterskiing are popular water activities, especially with several skiers, since inboard engines provide greater wake control, more towing power, and a clean transom for tow lines. Increased longevity – usually beyond 6,000 hours.Inboard engines provide advantages due to their automotive heritage and more complicated design – but at a similar price. The propulsion system and prop are integrated into the hull in both situations. They may attach in the middle of your boat (direct drive systems) or stow inside the transom (rear drive systems) (V-drive systems). High-performance engines converted for maritime usage are known as inboard motors. What are the Key Differences Between Inboard and Outboard Motors?.

Inboard vs outboard