When you peruse Vazer’s intimate details it becomes obvious the new stern drive has been carefully researched and developed, and not just for user friendliness, but also durability.

Vazer’s gas engine was originally designed for Opel in Europe and is currently built in South America for automotive and industrial use. Marinized for small boats, the  block cants 50 degrees to port effectively lowering its height. The design is more than a little reminiscent of the old Chrysler slant six dating back to the 60's It too slanted to one side, lowering hoodlines. The tilt to one side also allowed incorporating a long-runner intake manifold that beefed up low to mid-range torque.

So just how low is Vazer? The highest point on Vazer measures 17-inches, or about three-inches less than MerCruiser's existing 135-hp 3.0L engine. Because the exhaust manifold riser is routed behind the block, just a 13 inches of  clearance is required over the top of most of the engine.

The GM Vortec long block spins a single overhead camshaft that actuate two valve per cylinder.  It draws its breath through a compact, composite plastic intake manifold. Long and lanky intake runners maximize torque and horsepower.

Where  a Mercury 90 horsepower outboard motor weighs 573 pounds, Vazer is just 399. The good news gets even better.  In a V-hull Vazer shifts the center of gravity forward and lower than with an outboard. That proudly influential handling manners for the better.

Want a longer boating season? Special heat exchanger ports allow plumbing a boat for cabin heat. As warm as toast. A special engine-mount design dramatically reduces noise and vibration so it’s easier to hold simple conversation or listen to music underway

The good news from MerCruiser gets even better. Closed loop cooling of the engine block, aluminum exhaust header and cylinder head, all make Vazer an appropriate choice for both freshwater and saltwater boats.  For longevity sake, a quick-connect freshwater port makes flushing cooling passages simple and fast. The seawater system self-drains drains engine and drive with no action required by the owner.

MerCruiser vazer talking points video

To see  more marine engine stories:

  Marine Engine Digest Home Page

Vazer's drive leg is an Alpha unit with a new, shorter midsection housing that elevates the propeller to accommodate shorter transom heights. The final drive ratio is 2.58 to one, a lower gear ratio that leverages torque to higher levels.