This test is about as close as you’ll get to a true comparison.
I read the test and think that the bulk of engine development dollars from mercury and Yamaha have gone into outboards over the past 20 years or so and this test proves it. And for people who moan about outboards cluttering up the transom, hand them a fuel bill or let them change a starter.
I had a single engine jet and it sucked big time. I understand the twin Yamis are quite reliable and have better performance, but the capital cost to me is prohibitive.
We had an I/O for 35 years and although we liked it, the maintenance was an issue and a lot of cockpit room was taken up by the engine.
Our second boat has always been a 2-stroke outboard and they have always given us good service. But now, the 4-strokes have changed the whole game. Currently own 2 mercs - a 60 and a 150, both fuel injected, quiet, fuel efficient and the maintenance is not even worth talking about. Winterizing - yeah, 20 minutes.
No more gimble bearings, u-joints, sucking out oil, draining water, and I don't even want to talk about bellows.....LOL.
I realize beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, but that huge Merc on the back of my SeaRay just looks cool!. And the compartment where the engine would have been is almost big enough to install a head.