On Wed, 25 Jan 2006 16:15:13 -0500, DSK wrote:

Why would you choose one type of propulsion over another?

Somewhere around 200 hp the power per $$$ ratio begins to favor
inboards or I/O. I/Os typically have more speed than comparable
inboards but maintenance costs tend to be higher, and I/Os really need
to be stored out of the water for decent longevity. I/Os and
outboards are both favored in shallow water areas because they
typically need less depth, and prop replacement is easier and cheaper.
Inboards and I/Os have traditionally offered better fuel economy but
that may be changing with better OB technology.