Horsepower Ratings

[tboltmike]

I have always heard the newer engines have more power than an older one of equal power rating. Reason given was that the measurement point moved from the powerhead (flywheel) to the propeller shaft a number of years ago. Thus the newer engines are rated after transmission losses. A BPR/OMC dealer commented that say a 130 ETEC produced as much power as a mid '70's 150.

Yesterday, I heard someone comment that the older engines were under rated, more powerful than posted HP. Reason given, was high compression and a philosophy to under rate.

Just curious if any of you that were more intimate with the older engines could comment on this.

 

[racerone]

True----------There is horse power and then there is torque.-----------------Generally speaking an 81 - 70 HP Johnson was sold / marketed in 1988 as a 60 HP propshaft power.-----------Then again there were the early 50's Mercury motors were a " super 10 " put out about 16 HP-------------There is no hard and fast rule here.--------Experience and knowing your motors counts.