Pump it up!

A 315hp skiboat engine and the space saving 100hp Vazer engine-sterndrive system are diametrical opposites but among Mercury Marine's important newcomers to 2007 that are currently featuring on the national boat show circuit.

"You want it, Aussies? You got it" says Mercury MerCruiser with the unveiling on this year's Australian boat show circuit of its new big horsepower engine developed specifically for ski enthusiasts.

The new 315hp engine has also been developed exclusively for Australia and aimed at the skiboat owner who's looking for plenty of power along with the security and peace of mind that comes from the MerCruiser brand, says Mercury.

It joins four other models that make up the range of MerCruiser's towsport inboard engines - rated from 270 to 340hp.

The 315hp 5.7lt V8 features a four-barrel Weber carburettor and slots in above the entry level 270hp 5.7lt two-barrel carbie model.

"The ski market in Australia is very robust and customers are calling for a higher horsepower engine at this end of the range, so we went out and developed one for them," said David Meehan, director MerCruiser Australia, NZ and Pacific.

"At 315hp, the new engine is a big step forward in power from MerCruiser's existing 270hp entry-level engine," he said.

The recommended retail price for the new motor is $15,169 and comes with a full three-year warranty.

"There is always a temptation for people just getting into skiing to buy a reconditioned second-hand engine, and one that was probably designed to be in a car," said Meehan.

"But now there's no need to take that risk. This is a fantastic specialist marine engine with stacks of power, an affordable price and a three-year warranty," he said.

The new engine, which weighs 379kg, develops its 315hp (235kW) at 4800 to 5200 rpm and has been available since July.

Showing Mercury's willingness to innovate and push the boundaries is MerCruiser's Vazer engine and sterndrive system which the manufacturer claims will revolutionise the smaller boat markets around the world.

Designed as an alternative to outboard engines, the 100hp Vazer is super-compact - with its significantly reduced engine height allowing it to fit in areas that up to now have not been utilized - quieter running and easier to operate.

The bulk of the engine is only 52cm high and peaks at 66cm at the coolant pressure cap.

MerCruiser said the engine's unique size provides boat builders with greater design flexibility - with additional space now available for passengers and gear.

The engine height allows it to fit under the seats, platforms and decks of a variety of boats, including pontoons, fishing craft and runabouts.

The Vazer also provides improved access to the water, compared to traditional sterndrive or outboard engines.

"Vazer will revolutionize the small boat segment in our markets," said Meehan.

"That's a big statement but this sterndrive system will enable boatbuilders to design boats in configurations previously unimaginable," he said.

Vazer is based on a proven 1.6lt GM Vortec SOHC four-cylinder engine with an all-new compact sterndrive, and features a composite-shell heat exchanger and heater connection ports for the addition of cockpit or cabin heat.

The engine has a closed loop cooling system – including engine block, aluminium exhaust header and cylinder head – making Vazer ideal for both fresh and saltwater use.

There is a self-draining seawater system that drains water from the engine and drive with no action required by the operator.

The Vazer comes with standard power steering, and a special engine mounting design dramatically reduces unwanted noise and vibration. It's reduced profile and lower centre of gravity is said to improve handling markedly and allow for quicker planing.

Also, Vazer includes 100-hour maintenance features such as translucent fluid reservoirs, a remote-mounted engine oil filter, five-year engine coolant and an oil drain system.

The Vazer drive has internal fluid routing for the trim cylinders doing away with exposed external trim hoses.

An engine mounted lubricant reservoir with built-in electronic fluid-level sensing that is integrated into the standard Engine Guardian and drive protection system.

For more information, phone 1800 114 700, or visit http://www.mercurymarine.com.au/