Mercruiser GM 300hp shaft drive diesels?

[Robin]

Asa numpty on motors I though Mercruiser were only stern drives, but have seen a boat (Carver)online with shaft drive ones listed. are these any good?, boat is 1994 so engines probably same age 'ish Pics online are too dark to see much at all. I had an idea right or wrong that Mercruiser used Cummins, is Cummins part of GM?

 

[Tranona]

Run. Horrible engines based on GM road vehicle diesels which do not enjoy the best reputation.

 

[Robin]

Run. Horrible engines based on GM road vehicle diesels which do not enjoy the best reputation.

putting shoes on and deleted link to boat already!