What’s the Best Outboard Motor? Choosing the Right Engine for Your Boat

Choosing the best outboard motor whether new or used, depends on your boat type and usage. We explore top brands like Tohatsu, Evinrude Johnson, Mercury Mariner, Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki, covering key factors like power, fuel efficiency, and maintenance.

Outboard motors power everything from small dinghies to high-performance boats. With so many brands and models available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Factors like horsepower, fuel efficiency, and servicing requirements all play a role in finding the perfect fit.

In this guide, we’ll compare popular outboard motor brands, highlight their key features, and help you understand what to consider when purchasing your next engine.

Choosing the Right Outboard Motor for Your Needs

Boat Type & Size – The size and weight of your boat determine the horsepower and shaft length required.
Fuel Efficiency & Power Output – Consider whether a two-stroke or four-stroke engine suits your needs for fuel economy and performance.
Brand Reliability & Serviceability – Some brands offer better warranties and servicing options.
Budget & Long-Term Costs – Initial price vs. ongoing maintenance and fuel expenses.

Tohatsu: Affordable & Reliable Performance

Tohatsu outboard motors are known for their reliability and affordability. Manufacturing their first outboard in 1956, they are one of the oldest manufacturers of outboards. They are a great choice for small to mid-sized boats, offering lightweight designs and excellent fuel efficiency. Tohatsu engines are simple to maintain, making them a favourite among recreational boaters. Tohatsu’s general servicing items tend to be the most reasonably priced for genuine parts.

Evinrude Johnson: Innovation & Efficiency

Although no longer in production, Evinrude and Johnson outboards are still a great choice in the used market. As the oldest manufacturer of outboards, parts are still available for models dating back to the 1950’s. The Evinrude E-TEC advanced fuel injection technology, offers excellent fuel economy, low emissions and the power of a two stoke motor.

Mercury Mariner: Power & Versatility

Mercury and Mariner outboards are renowned for their power and durability. There are still many Mercury two stoke outboards from the 1970’s still in daily use. Available in horse-powers from 2.5HP to 600HP there is a model for every application.

30HP and upwards also benefit from being Mercury SmarCraft compliant. This allows the use of a Bluetooth module to transmit engine data to your mobile phone.

Honda: Smooth & Quiet Operation

Honda outboard motors are known for their quiet, fuel-efficient performance. All models are four-stroke, providing good low speed running and reduced fuel consumption and emissions. Older models were extremely well built, so it is no surprise to see many late 1980’s and early 1990’s models still in daily use.

Comparing More Outboard Motor Brands

Yamaha: Trusted

Yamaha outboards are among the most popular in the marine industry, known for their exceptional reliability and performance. Although they are priced at the top end of the market, so tend to be used by professionals and installed on specific boat brands.

Suzuki: Innovation & Fuel Efficiency

Suzuki engines incorporate advanced fuel-saving technology while maintaining performance. Suzuki’s four stroke models have been proved to be reliable, and are often original fitment on many UK built fishing boats.

A long with Tohatsu, Suzuki are a popular outboard when it comes to repowering an older boat.

Finding the Right Horsepower for Your Boat

Selecting the correct horsepower ensures optimal performance. Underpowering your boat can strain the engine, while overpowering it can lead to safety concerns. Check your boat manufacturer’s recommendations before making a purchase.

Maintenance & Servicing for Long-Term Performance

Regular servicing extends the life of your outboard motor. Simple tasks like flushing the engine, checking the oil, and inspecting the fuel system can prevent costly repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Outboard Motors

How often should I service my outboard motor?

Routine maintenance should be performed at least once a year or every 100 hours of use. Regular servicing helps prevent breakdowns and keeps your engine running smoothly.

What’s the difference between a two-stroke and a four-stroke outboard motor?

Two-stroke engines are generally lighter and provide more power, while four-stroke engines are more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly. Your choice depends on your boating style and efficiency needs.

With the Evinrude E-TEC no longer in production, only four stroke models are available for recreational users looking for a new outboard. There is no restriction at present on purchasing and using older two stroke models.

With new light weight, EFI four stroke models from manufactures such as Mercury and Tohatsu, the difference in performance between two stoke and four stroke is now very small.

Which outboard motor brand is the most reliable?

Reliability depends on maintenance. All the major outboard manufactures make reliable outboards, with none better or worse than each other. All outboard manufactures offer long warranties with their new outboards, showing the confidence they have have in their products.

When considering a used outboard, as a car, it all depends on how it has been looked after and maintained. A maintained 25 year old outboard that has been used every weekend, can be more reliable than an 5 year old model, that has been used for two weeks a year. Due to the low hours used, these outboards can often get servicing missed.