Posted by ken on October 06, 2003 at 17:50:51:
Why not a V6 in a Mahogany runabout? The modern EFI V6 goes to over 200hp and the venerable 283/327 chevy came in around the same HP or even less. The classic Chris-Crafts were flatheads, as were other builders, So why not a EFI V6, aluminum manofolds, modern down angle lightweight tranny? The V6 will be lighter than a 283, more power, less fuel burn, AND being shorter would allow a flatter shaft angle for better thrust.
If it is lighter and flatter shaft angle, then why wouldnt it perform well? I once looked at the power-to-weight ratios of GM engines and the 4.3L and 454 gave the best weight ratio.