Evinrude 135hp Crossflow V4 vs Mercury 125hp OptiMax

Evinrude

135hp Crossflow V4

1978 · 135 HP · 2-Stroke
VS
Mercury

125hp OptiMax

2010 · 125 HP · 2-Stroke
Spec Evinrude 135hp Crossflow V4 Mercury 125hp OptiMax
Power & Performance
Horsepower 135 HP 125 HP
Displacement 1600 cc ← 1522 cc
Configuration 4 Cyl / V4 90° 3 Cyl / Inline
Weights & Dimensions
Dry Weight 142 kg (313 lbs) ← 170 kg (375 lbs)
Mechanical & Electrical
Gear Ratio 1.86 2.07:1
Alternator 126 W 864 W ←
Fuel Delivery Twin Carbureted DFI (Direct Injection)
Maintenance
Spark Plug Champion QL77JC4 NGK IZFR6J
Engine Oil TC-W3 2-Stroke Mercury OptiMax/DFI Oil

Technical Comparison Analysis

Power & Displacement

Comparing the Evinrude 135hp Crossflow V4 and Mercury 125hp OptiMax shows a displacement difference of 78cc. The Evinrude features a larger 1600cc block, which typically provides superior low-end torque and better hole-shot performance when pushing heavy loads or reaching planning speeds.

Weight & Rigging

In terms of transom weight, the Evinrude is the lighter option at 142kg, offering a weight saving of 28kg over its competitor. This weight reduction is critical for smaller hulls or boats with limited transom capacity where every kilogram affects the center of gravity and drainage efficiency.

Electrical & Features

For boats equipped with modern electronics, sonar, and shallow-water anchors, the Mercury offers the best charging performance with a 864W alternator. Choosing the right power-to-weight profile between these two 2-stroke engines depends heavily on your specific boat's displacement and daily power requirements.