Since I came across the following ad, it's high time to get some good debate on why so many think a 272 should have big blocks:
http://adcache.boattraderonline.com/6/2/9/85896629.htm

Remember, we're talking the '86-'89 272 here. From what I've read the 272, 292 & 311 of the era are pretty similar, but I don't debate the need for the bigger boats to have at least 365hpx2 = big blocks. What does a 272 with stock 330hp big blocks gain over a 260hp, or eventually a 300-320hp small block package? More weight, higher fuel burn, a few mph over a small block package, Bravo 1s with room for expansion, less room in the engine compartment...
If my goal is a relatively fuel efficient 35-40mph cruise and 55mph+ top speed, why wouldn't I be happy starting with 260hp small blocks?
Please share any (on topic) thoughts, experience, ideas, suggestions.
Thanks,
Michael

If your looking for good stock power this boat looks nice. But with 600 plus hours on original power it will be costly to replace.I am sure you can get more life out of these engines, plus it is fresh water. I feel the same way you do with a nice cruise speed of 45mph and a max of 60mph you will get good economy.


good luck

Small blocks are my choice. The have more room in the engine comparment and give you a nice ride. Back in the 80`s we sold about 85% of our boats w/small blocks. If you were looking for more power I would drive the 260`s for a couple of seasons and save my money and drop in a set of newer model 300`s long blocks. Or you may find a pair of newer motors someone are removing because they thimnk they have to have big blocks. I fail to see the change as we are now getting 300 to 320hp out of these great little engines and that is the same hp that the 454 put out in the mid 80`s. Seems to make sense to me!

The exact reason i bought small blocks. Now with that being said bb have more tq and that is what gets you mph . HANFULZ28 it was nice talking to you the other night and i hope that i helped ya. BTW just get in your truck and drive to MI there is a real nice 272 here for ya

Thanks Car Biz, I appreciate the time you spent on the phone with me.

Unfortunately, I'm more confused than ever. I've gone back and started reading most of the relevant 60+ pages of threads here in the Formula forum. After all my effort looking for a good value 272, I think I'm going to go look at this:
http://miami.craigslist.org/boa/201749098.html

Thanks guys, keep it coming...
Michael

When i step up it will be to a 311. The 311 is one of the best boats made of all time IMHO

No trailer with that 272, figure another four grand there. Definetely go big block. Torque follows displacement, and as noted above, torque is what spins your prop.

I had an 85 272 ls with 260s it did about 50mph cruise @ 42pmh. I upgraded the motors to about 325 hp. I only picked up about 4-5 mph But it guzzeled gas. I went to 330's and the boat didnt handle as well but did get up to 59mph. these boats were made for small blockes. If I had to do it all over again I would leave the small block 260's and the 2.0 mpg instead of the 1.2mpg I ended up with. The added weight was detrimental. The best thing about these boats with the 260 set up is that they don't break very often but if they do it's generally a cheap fix.

I prefer big blocks because they virually all came with Bravos(except 1987s) and I can cruise all day at 50 and only 3000 rpms.

I think he might be looking at STOCK power..