A Merc optimax will get you out of the hole quicker and carry the boat faster than any 4 stroke will. Consider a new Optimax or other DFI. Carb engines will burn a little more fuel and will be a little louder. DFIs are the best of all worlds - good speed, good gas mileage, and usually a better price than 4 strokes. Do remember though that good oil will make for a longer lasting of any type of engine. Period.
If you really want a four stroke, though, I would highly recommend Zukis. I just sold a 22ft bay boat with a 140 Zuki 4 stroke and I know it got close to 6 mpg on a cruise and still topped it out at 46 mph on a good day. Those new 150 and 175 big block in-line 4 Zukis I'm sure will carry that V21 pretty well.
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