I am looking at re-powering my new to me , early 1980's 14' fiberglass runabout, the 1981 Johnson 70hp it came with is too much motor for me and too heavy. There are currently 2 used motors I am considering as they are both within my budget. Both are electric start and 20" shaft, and come with controls. I am not "brand specific" so to speak, and not that mechanical, but do know that hp alone is not always the best way to compare motors. One motor is a 1992, 35hp Force (so Mercury?), the other is a 1982 Johnson 50hp, which is $300 more than the Merc, both claim to have low hours, but who knows how low, and good compression and only being sold because they bought new motors , from pictures in the ads, they are both above average on the outside and appear to be well maintained (very clean, little if any scrapes, scratches etc). Based on difference in engine weight (if any), and any other technical stuff, will I see a noticeable difference in top speed with the 1982 50hp, or would I be better to go with the 10yr newer Force and save the $300 for future repairs etc, cause we all know what boat stands for. I don't need to go 40mph, but also don't want to be a snail. Both are an hour away, but in different directions, Thanks
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