Volvo vs Mercruiser Question

[dogfan1980]

The boat's we've had in the past have all been Mercruisers, and as such, we've grown very fond of them. We've are moving to replace our ski boat and the boat we've found that interests us is a Volvo Penta V8. Now, we're reticent to buy a Volvo engine as we've had no experience with it and see Mercruiser as top of the line. What are your experiences with Volvos? Is this basically a Chevy vs Ford discussion? Getting the same either way, but just a personal preference?

Thanks!

 

[KCook]

My I/O boat happened to have a Volvo. Most of my friends run Mercs. As far as the motor itself goes I would say this is on a "Chevy vs Ford" basis. Even less difference really, since both use a GM block. Main differences are in the drive designs and how the warranties are structured. Volvo can score some points for their drives. But really, both work. There are long rambling (and impassioned) debates on all this on several US message boards for boating.

Kelly Cook

 

[Nautorius]

Hi,

I have had both and the important thing is maintenance on them. Mercs and Volvo engines are as good as each other if looked after. The Issue is the legs. The Merc B3's are great outdrives but get eaten alive with corrosion. The Volvo Dp outdrives are also great but eat bellows and the seals seem to fail more often. Basically find the boat you like and ensure the engines and drives have been looked after. As you have already had a few boats you know the score and there is not much difference to me,

Paul