23 Tsunami ride quality; V8 (300hp ) i/o vs 225 -250 o/b ?

[abl1111]

Got the boat up here. It's do-able ! I am trying to get my mind on the power I will be putting on her. I am either going w/ a single V8 ( w/ a bravo 2 or 3 ) or a big outboard ( 4 stroke a possible option ).

I have not done the math($)yet on either option. I'd like to get some opinions on the two options so I can make a decision and then strat planning in that direction.

My needs: I am not a speed demon, although getting out of the hole ( torque ) is very important. I've always owned o/b's and they have been good to me. I can read a shop manual and turn a wrench well enough and obviously an i/o is the easier to work on. I've always considered the lower unit on an i/o a 'necessary evil'.

Either way, I am r/r the fuel tanks and the transom.

Your input appreciated.

- Alan