For a toon boat I would do the merc.
Volvo parts are expensive.
Price out the props for each.
merc are cheaper
We are considering these engine options in our new boat purchase. the Merc would be a 350 Mag/MPI with a bravo III or the Volvo 5.7 GXI with the Duoprop. The Volvo has 20 more HP but their Duoprop set up is said to be better than the Bravo III.
I am curious about resale? would either of these matter to you if you were purchasing this boat used? Warranty's are the same and the the Volvo is actually ~$1500 more than the Merc. Incase is matters, the boat is a 25' Bennington pontoon.
Thanks for the input.
Ryan
For a toon boat I would do the merc.
Volvo parts are expensive.
Price out the props for each.
merc are cheaper
Consider where you will be boating, and then look at the certified repair facilities, and the availability of parts. I believe the Volvo has a better drive system, but here in Havasu there weren't many repair facilities, and when I talked to several repair facilities (Alco is a Volvo certified facility), they talked me into staying with Mercury.
I vote Merc/ Bravo. I am looking for a JC with this combo also.
slightly off topic, but is Absolute Marine still around? I have not heard anything about them lately.
I see the Merc trend that i thought i would
Absolute is still around, and going strong.
You would probably be better off with the merc/bravo. When I bought my boat it had a 280 AQ which is an older model Volvo and it has been insanely expensive for parts. To give you an idea, I priced a new starter at $600
Absolute is still around, and going strong.
Good good. They are an authorized Bennington warranty service center.
I agree that if you throw the two choices up here on ***boat, the response will be overwhelming for Mercury, as they control the high performance market in comparison to Volvo-Penta.
My suggestion is to call around to the repair facilities in the area you will be doing the majority of your boating, and get their opinions.
Also, consider where you might be taking the boat. If you go to Powell, and on the first day of your trip require a part, will your trip be ruined due to lack of availability?
Good good. They are an authorized Bennington warranty service center.
I'm sure the Boat Brokers is also.