[macojoe]

Well OB may be more to buy, but you will have less in the way of maintance in the long run. And you can install your self. Gas if powered right will be very close to a I/O. And my OB is quiter then my I/O ever was.

I/O will cost less to repower, but you will spend much more time and money getting it installed!! Over time there is alot more maintance to a I/O then there is to OB!!

But OB is more $$ out of pocket to get started.

IMO I think that if you were able to take two boats and give them the same amount of use you will find that over time they are pretty equal!!
The only difference is,( and I belive important) is a outboard will have less break downs with less maintance, and you can just hang the motor of choice on the back when ready.