The Honda BF350 is a 5.0-liter V8 outboard and the new top-of-the-line engine in the Honda Marine lineup. Previously, the only V8s Honda produced were racing engines.
Despite its history of building performance cars like the NSX and pickup trucks like the Ridgeline, the Japanese company has never sold a production automobile with a V8 engine. So, why is its first mass-market V8 a boat engine?
As you might expect from a Honda engine, it has VTEC variable-valve timing technology to deliver an ideal balance of performance and efficiency.
As a result, Honda claims it outperforms the competition’s fuel efficiency at cruising speed by 17%. The “competition” Honda refers to is likely the Yamaha XTO Offshore V8.
Honda says its new boat engine shares some DNA with the Acura NSX. The crankshaft is built with the same alloy and to the same specifications.
Because Honda engineered the NSX for luxury and performance, the result should be smooth and strong power delivery.
Mercury is among the top names in robust marine engines, especially its Verado lineup. These models range from 250 to 600 hp. The smallest is a 4.6-liter V8, but V10 and V12 Verado motors pack
punch and carry five-figure price tags. However, the Verado isn’t Mercury’s only V8. It also builds V8s for its SeaPro, ProXS, and FourStroke families.
Yamaha is one of Honda’s closest rivals, not only in the world of motorcycles but also boat engines. The Yamaha outboard lineup is similar to Honda’s. Its biggest engine is the Yamaha XTO Offshore. This 5.6-liter V8 harnesses 450 hp.