Mercury Racing has released a new 450R outboard that features the same 4.6-liter V8 FourStroke powerhead used on 300R outboards. The new engine is boosted by an exclusive supercharger that produces 450 peak propshaft horsepower and 40 percent higher torque than its 400R predecessor.
Although this is a Racing engine, it’s likely to find use on offshore fishing vessels and even some larger bay boats.
The wide-open throttle operating range extends from 5,800 to 6,400 rpm, allowing for a full complement of Mercury Racing props to optimize acceleration, efficiency and top speed. The 450R also features high-performance charging capacity. The 115-amp alternator handles extreme audio systems and multiple electronics. When the Idle Charge battery-management system senses low battery voltage, it automatically increases engine idle rpm to boost alternator output.
The engine can be equipped with a Sport Master gear case, for boats capable of speeds in excess of 85 mph, or a 5.44 HD gear case for lower-speed and traditional submerged applications. Both feature a 1.6-to-1 gear ratio.
The new outboard runs on 89 octane fuel and works with Mercury Racing Zero Effort Digital controls or any Mercury Marine digital-control system; Joystick Piloting is optional for multi-engine setups. Available in Cold Fusion white and Phantom Black, the 450R comes with a 20-, 25- or 30-inch shaft. The lightest version weighs in at 689 pounds. The outboards are expected to cost $54,000 to $64,000.
