True dat.

The old OMC 150 eagle series was a bit of a middle finger
to Merc as it turned 168 at the prop.

I can hold plane at 3k and 12 mph not kts.

My `89 Slacker 20 hits 43 wot as propped.
Not for wot.

The Seafari has a bit more weight forward.

My CG plate lists 235 max HP and the transom
is 2 3/8 thick from the factory.

I would find you a 2 stroke 90. I think the etec would be great.

I have an old old Tohatsu 90A carb motor on my 18 and have been shocked at how well it performs. Planes quickly, 'WOT is about 32 and gets 3.3 mpg average. Its also been crazy dependable. I like the simplicity of the 2 strokers.