Whats the difference between a Verado 400 and a Merc Racing 400R?

The 400r has a higher rev limiter and a sportmaster lower unit. The sportmaster allows you to run the motor higher picking up speed for boats that can go over 80. The regular 400 has a standard lower and is better suited for slower boats.

Think of the 400 as being more like the 350 but with almost-the-400r PCM.

I dont get it....Isnt H.P. H.P?

I've sometimes wondered about the 'Racing' line of outboards too. Some Merc racing engines have been reported to make more hp than their model designation suggests.

The old Promax 300X is often touted at 320-330 hp. The Optimax 250XS and 300XS models are apparently good for a few extra hp too. That said, I haven't read much on the Verado line, maybe it's a similar story.....?

RR

The Racing motors have solid motor mounts and the non-Racing motors usually have bushings to dampen engine vibes. The older Racing two stroke line had different trim pumps too, slower but stronger. Not sure if that still applies in the 4strokes.

The 400R came out before the 400M. It had options of the SportMaster lower or standard HD lower. They also had the rear wing plate version for a sport cat’s tie bar. When the 400M was released, the 400R went to a SportMaster only. The 400R is strictly for a high performance application now. The 400M is not designated a Racing engine in order to help the consumer with their insurance costs.

I figgered someone would know!!