Why I Love the Mercruiser 120 hp 4 cylinder Engine

If you've ever owned a classic bowrider from the 70s or 80s, you've likely spent some time staring at a mercruiser 120 hp 4 cylinder tucked away in the bilge. It's one of those engines that defines an era of boating. For decades, this little iron workhorse was the go-to choice for manufacturers like Sea Ray, Bayliner, and Wellcraft. It wasn't the fastest thing on the water, but it had a reputation for being nearly bulletproof if you treated it right. ...

February 16, 2026 · 6 min · Marisol Souli