Upgrading to a larger boat and have 2 identical boats targeted, one with two Merc 7.4L EFI straight inboards and the other with two Volvo KAMD 300 diesels. I found manufacturer spec sheets for both engine combinations; fuel economy for the diesels is about 40% better, 1.3mpg vs 0.95mpg. Diesel fuel at area fuel docks is approx. 0.15 - 0.20 cents cheaper than gas. Based on my average annual usage, the fuel savings is probably $500-$750 per year (north east). The boat with diesel engines is materially more expensive and I am concerned about regular maintenance costs with diesels. Basically, the break even point from fuel savings is very far away.
Looking for opinions and experiences....
Looking for opinions and experiences....