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MerCruiser VazerA worthy alternative for 90- to 115- horsepower outboard motors? These days stern drives are technology’s child, with the major players regularly announcing potent new engines, drive legs backed up by a big push for longer life in saltwater. A good example of this trend is the MerCruiser Vazer, the new stern drive powered by General Motor's 1.6L Vortec four-cylinder in-line engine. Rated a modest 100 horsepower, the package boasts significantly reduced engine height allowing installation under seats, platforms and decks of pontoon boats, fishing boats and runabouts. In other words, MerCruiser Vazer is intended for installations that used to be the exclusive domain of 90- to 115-horsepower outboard motors. Vazer’s footprint is so compact it actually frees up space for carrying more passengers and gear. Another benefit: easier access to the water compared to either traditional stern drive or outboard motors. 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.
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Mercury Vazer Stern Drive 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.
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