Mariner 9.9HP vs Honda 10Hp

TJR · 28 July 2018, 18:33

Been shopping around today for a new outboard

Been told from a few dealers that the mariner 9.9 isn’t a true 10 and is more like a tuned up 8HP and that the Honda 10HP is a more powerful engine and I will regret buying the 9.9?

Can anyone advise or explain?

Fenlander · 28 July 2018, 18:57

What a load of....!

While there are small differences in the way different 10hp class OBs deliver their power basically a 10hp is give or take a 10hp... be it called a 9.8, 9.9 or 10. Any performance differences are more likely to be due to gearbox ratio and/or prop pitch.

Just like the Mariner/Mercury 9.9hp shares its leg and powerhead with the 8hp version with just carb/tuning differences the Honda 10hp is the same engine as the Honda 8hp with carb/tuning differences.

It is true the Honda has a fractionally larger capacity at 222cc as opposed to the Mariner/Mercury at 208cc. The Honda also weighs about 10lb more... noticeable in this size class.

In independent tests Motorboat magazine tested six 10hp outboards and interestingly the Honda was the slowest and the Mercury/Mariner the fastest.

https://www.mby.com/gear/ultimate-10...oup-test-51978

Fenlander · 28 July 2018, 19:00

I could have chosen either but didn't go for the Honda influenced by its higher price... greater weight... and slower performance on the test mentioned. They are well built engines though if you fancy one.

TJR · 28 July 2018, 19:19

You sir are a legend, me and the Mrs have been to a few dealers today. Been told so much different info, the Honda engines are stupid money and I’ll be honest I was tempted. However, I for some reason have the urge to keep going back to mariner.
But as I mentioned above the dealers tried to sway me towards the Honda. I think I’ll purchase a mariner in the morning ��

I’ve settled on a 3.2m v-deck honwave on your advice

Fenlander · 28 July 2018, 20:11

Hmm legend not sure but I just post what I know and if I don't know I don't offer an opinion.

What I do hate is dealers trying to manipulate decisions with misleading information.

If you choose the Mariner because it suits you I know you'll be pleased. I've had the brand in 25hp and under sizes since the early 1980s and their OBs have always been good to me.

Orwell boy · 28 July 2018, 20:23

i note my local dealer Seamark nunn ,felixstowe has a 15 % cashback deal on mariner 15 and 20 hp <i am guessing its a nationwide deal but just in case any use to anybody , nb i am not connected in any way except a satisfied customer

Fenlander · 07 September 2018, 08:50

TJR I see in another post you mention running in your new OB... what did you go for in the end?