"Christine" wrote in message news:UAr7g.1056

Newbie here...long time lurker, first time poster. Anyway, I'm doing some
research for my first boat for my family with two small kids (ages 6 & 2).
Pretty much have my choices narrowed to a 17--19 ft bowrider, I/O, will be
confined to inland lakes. I realize there's a pretty noticible power
difference between the 4 & 6 cylinders, and also realize there's a
difference in fuel consumption. At $3/gallon, I'd be lying if I wasn't
concerned. I'm stuck between the fuel economy difference and the prospect
that we will get bored with the limited power of a 4 cyl. as my kids grow
up. I'm looking at getting a newer model that I probably will keep for
several years. Towing & weight are also potential issues, because I don't
want to have to buy a vehicle with a V8.

Lots of negatives here, but I'll leave to you the question as to whether you
can basically afford this. Having said that:----

A) Your kids won't be small much longer. Get the 19ft.

B) The marginal cost of the additional HP is not that great in the context
of a boat purchase in general, but the HP will be essential as the kids get
bigger and approach adult size. Get the 6 cyl.