1989 Force 50 different than 69 Chry 45?

I have a 1969 Chrysler 45 that I am very fond of; pushes a super light 13ft 8" MFG smartly across the water. However, I am looking at a 1989 Force 50 for another project: my 14' Chrysler Valiant trihull. Many questions...

1) Is the Force 50 any different than my old Chrys. 45? They both look the same.

2) Any particular troubles with 1989?

3) The Valiant is rated for up to 55hp, and mine came with a Chrys. 45. Do you folks think that the Force 50 will be adequate power, or should I wait and find an OMC 50?

4) Would I be better off looking for another older Chrysler (easier to work on etc)?

Thanks for all thoughts and comments.

BTW I think the Valiant is a few hundred pounds more than my MFG.

Re: 1989 Force 50 different than 69 Chry 45?

My after market manual doesn't classify Force by years,only Force 50
A very brief look it seems diagrams,parts blowups and procedures are similar.
The 45 is a little over 42 cu.in. the 50;a little over 44.At some point Mercury parts were substituted to the Chrysler design.Probably after 89.

Re: 1989 Force 50 different than 69 Chry 45?

My experience with later Force engines in 85, 90, and 125 versus Chrysler is that they do outperform the Chryslers by a bit. the same should be true for your 50. I think ignition is a little better and they may have changed port timing a little also

But if you want to stay Chrysler powered on your Valient, I have a nice 55 --Big block, Prestolite ignition, One piece lower unit. --Cheap! PM me if interested.