500 EFI's or new 496 Mag HO's?
 

If you were buying a new or newer model 38' powerboat, which engines would you choose? I like the 500 EFI's as they are reliable and have been around some time. Is it worth the extra money for 4-6mph faster?

Hoping we sell our boat this weekend so wife and I can move up another 4 feet.

Thanks

ABSOLUTELY !!!! I just re-powered with 500's and they are absolutely the best. They are virtually bullet proof and will definately help you on re-sale. Plus they look really cool.

I ran the 496HO's last season. No problems. The advertised difference in HP is 850 or 940 total gain on twins. So far I have no complaints with the 496 motors. Depending on the deal you cut on a new boat it is easily between 20-30 thousand dollars to go with the HP500's. Only you can answer that question. I learned a long time ago you do not build horsepower you buy it. I think the cost difference Merc/builders charge is not worth the investment for the gains you receive. The 496 is a nice motor. Good luck on your decision.

Whatcha buying????

I think it all depends on the boat and how you plan on using it. The 496's are very nice motors and for the most part satisfy most of everyones boating needs except for that 4-6 MPH. Again it all depends on the boat..

I love my 500efi, however I question if I had it to do over, I may have gone with a Chief or Plaff engine, for the money. I believe the 500 will help my resale. Also 100 hrs and only had to replace the thermastate, on motor ;)

500's are amuch better engine! but it's all about the $$$...

Looking at a 38" Powerquest. After seeing the Speedvision show last night with the 36' Cat that was running 100+ with stock 500 EFI's, I would want to power with those engines.

However, I have a target price in mind which will make the final choice!

I would go with the 500s. The boat will run 80 mph, rather than 73-74 with the 496.

You could have Powerquest check their dealer network and see what is still out there for leftover 2001 models with 500s. I bet you can cut a nice deal right about now. :)

Went through the exact same decision process you are, 1 year ago. I'd have to agree with D2, normally its a 20-30K adder, significant on the monthly payment. Can you get the Merc. Q-Gard extended warranty on 500'S?

Its only a matter of time before a "new" 500 version will be out based on the new block design.

For me, I spend 80-85% of my time cruising from A to B, not full out.

Both are great packages, you'll just have to decide how will you use the boat and if the extra $ is worth the 4-6mph.

My 02.

96Vyper,
I tell ya, I think it's a lot harder decision now than it once used to be when selecting a motor. The 496 is new, so that makes it tougher. NOt that I've been boating all that long, BUT, the choices of adding superchargers, etc. years and years ago used to be "less reliable". The new(er) whipples/pro charger setups are much more reliable than the older B&M and other setups used to be. Depends on boost, etc, too, but it seems it's easier to justify a supercharger nowadays based on the reliablity factor. So, that brings the "should I save money now, and add goodies later" thought much more of a difficult decision.

I can tell you that if I were buying, I'd decide as follows. If I was buying an efficient hull'd boat that would run fast enough for me now, I'd go 496. And maybe XZ drives or something with thoughts of possible supercharging later when the 496 motors are more "proven" and I have input on others doing that setup. But if I NEEDED the power to go the desired speed, I'd get 500's if I could afford it.

Good luck selling your boat, hope it works out for you :)

[ 01-31-2002: Message edited by: 32fever ]