I've owned all 3 types, inboard, outboard and i/o and I like the i/o because it offers the best of both worlds in one package. It's more manouverable than an inboard and the thrust line can be altered where the inboard thrusts at an angle and is not as efficient, it's usually more economical than an outboard and a lot less noisy than most, especially at high speeds. A lot of the parts can be found at auto parts stores at much cheaper prices than for an outboard which are usually only offered by the manufacturer at exorbitant prices. To me the disadvantage of the engine box is not as bad as a big outboard hanging out the back with the powerhead right in the way and with the new fad of installing outboards on those transom brackets, you loose the whole transom area to the engine(s) and bracket. I've lost too many big marlin because of an outboard in the way when trying to board it so, for me, an i/o is the better choice. On CC boats, an i/o on a jackshaft with the engine under the console would be even better, clean cockpit just like an inboard but with shallow water capability (with the oudrive raised)!
