"Yes, was built in 1985 to be
"Yes, was built in 1985 to be sold as the "newly redesigned" 1986 model.
Was a just a detuned version of the 90 horse which is probably Merc's most prolific (and exceptionally well built) motor in that horsepower class - but don't start dreaming about turning your 75 into a 90 - yes it can be done but will result in 2 things - NO "noticable" performance increase at all but a very noticable decrease in the amount of cash in your wallet.
Stayed virtually unchanged until the 1995 model year - tons of parts available both new/used - decent motors - I would gladly hang a pair of 75's on the back of my big boat to replace the 140 Ev currently hangin' there..."