There are three main types of engine that you are likely to come across when buying an affordable pre-owned speed boat:

1. Outboard

Outboard engines are likely to be the most common that you come across, particularly on smaller boats. An outboard engine is fitted to the back (transom) of the boat. The propeller is attached directly to the engine and the boat is steered by moving the engine left or right, so the engine itself acts as the rudder. My first pre-owned speed boat had an outboard engine.

Outboard engine

2. Inboard

An inboard engine is positioned inside the boat (rather than attached to the transom at the back as with an outboard engine). A shaft under the boat connects the engine to the propeller at the back. Boats with inboard engines need a rudder to steer them. Inboard motors are more likely to be found on bigger boats.

3. Sterndrive (also known as “inboard/outboard”)

Sterndrives are thought by some to be the best of both worlds. Like an inboard engine, the sterndrive engine is positioned inside the boat, forward of the transom. A shaft through the transom connects the engine to the propeller which acts as the rudder like an outboard engine. So sterndrives don’t need rudders. My second pre-owned speed boat has a sterndrive engine.

Sterndrive engine

Which type of engine is best for you? Whichever type is attached to your boat! It doesn’t really matter which type of engine you have as long as it is the correct engine for your boat. If you are buying a smaller boat, you are likely to be buying one with an outboard engine.