Little Boat Repower Time

[tj309]

I have a 13' Speedster which is very similar to the 10' GW Invader I had years ago. The Invader did 36 with a 35 Merc 4 cyl which at the time was probably 30 hp at the prop. The 1996 70 hp Evinrude is shot. I need a new motor and it has to be a Merc. This is just a screw around fun boat that may be driven by kids. I am looking at a Merc 60 4S which would give me 60mph with a 21' prop. I think the Merc 50 4S would do the same for $500 less. These are heavy motors (247lbs). so the battery would probably have to be moved to the bow. The Merc 40 4S would give me 50mph for another $500 less and 30 lbs lighter. Thoughts? Advice? I am getting up in the years and sold my beloved Venom because I don't need a boat that can kill me and I don't have a desire to go 90 anymore.

[Motv18]

60 and 40 are same block unless changed recently so go 60. You might also look at the 60 formula it’s basically a go cart racer motor mini sporter foot and all. But might be cost prohibitive.