merc vs volvo

[dmartin1]

Does anyone have any feedback on using a Merc 8.2 H.O vs Volvo 6.2 H.O? Also if 6.2 what fuel is required?

[Whippled263]

I own a 8.2 496 ho merc. What type of info are you looking for? As for fuel you should always use non-ethanol marine grade fuel if possible

[Big Block Power]

Yes reg unleaded in both engines, performance. Volvo Prob has the edge on paper and boating magazine. In real life none of us have gotten the chance to run them side by side. I think both have there benefits.

[Stagdad]

I chose Volvo and here’s why. It is based on a GM production engine, they make a million a year, its tried and true. Closed loop / easy drain cooling system, easy winterization. Aluminum block /heads. Saves some weight. Don’t get me wrong the Mercury is also based on a GM design , just older and cast iron. Had mine been fitted with a Merc it would not have held up the deal. I love the power and response of the VP with its variable valve timing and hi pressure fuel injection. I haven’t heard about lack of servicing dealers and parts scarcity yet.. they have sold an awful lot of the gray engines the last few years.My .02 cents having owned both brands.

[tgrace98]

89% of cobalts that leave the factory now are equipped with VP motors. Is it because they are better? I have no idea I am not a mechanic. My guess it would have a tad to do with the fact that brunswick owns Merc and they are a competitor to Cobalt. I went VP because that is what my dealer preferred to work on plus like Stagdad said they still use GM motors. Love mine so far after almost 2 seasons.

[go4it]

I tried my best to research this subject a while back before ordering a boat yet this fall. My "two-cents": there is no wrong choice. For what it is worth, I'm going with the Merc 6.2/350 in a cs23. It boiled down to dba. The Mercs run at a lower rpm resulting in a lower pitch sound which, for our primary use (cruising), is more user friendly. The vp380 added about 3-4 mph top end and a fraction of a second quicker to plane - not enough difference for me to go that route - especially in view of the sound difference.
We're fortunate to have two solid manufacturers to choose from.

[Big Block Power]

That will be a very nice post plant for that boat.