anyone know what the cost for a pair of new merc 700sci is?

you need to call a dealer like Marc at Bam, doubt if you can buy just an engine, probably have to buy as a package, may even have to be an oem to buy the package since its a new package that is high performance.

52k each OEM

Does that include the tranny and drive?

What is the "transom back" (transom plates, tranny, drive etc) unit separately if available that way?

I doubt that $52K from Merc includes an NXT1 drive and tranny ... or any drive and tranny for that matter But what do I know ....

I got a better idea... take the $52K and have two killer back-up engines built to have around on standby!!

52k is with the NXT drive package, 700/#6 is quite a bit more $ unless the manufacturer commits to more than 10 units {Fountain} The new {08} NXT's have the same length rudder/skeg as the #6 drive, no more handling issues with tight stagger and high X combos, Ive got 12hrs on mine with excellent results with the whole package except for fuel consumption

Welcome to the wonderfull world of performance boating right

52K for the 700/NXT setup is not even close !! If I am not mistaken it is approx. 20K shy.