I'm really struggling on what to put on my new Ranger Z521. It's down to a 250 Merc ProXS or the 250 Yama SHO. Any opinions and why would be great.

I keep getting conflicting stories... Some say the SHO will come out of the hole shot and quickly gain a 100 yard advantage over the ProXS? but then others have told me the SHO is no better out of the hole? Some say the Pro XS has more mid range punch when you hit the gas when already on plane? How about difference in fuel economy? Overall speed?

So anyone with opinions on any of the above are welcome. Which motor any why? Thanks very much!

From what I have heard the XS will top end the SHO but it takes about 7 miles to catch it on the same set ups due to the SHO's low end and mid range

out of the hole sho
mid range sho and ProXS would be close to the same
no oil to buy sho
top end ProXS
fuel mpg ProXS

For me it's a toss up and I would come down the side of the best warranty, mpg and service availability. I also have something about made in the USA, for better or for worse. JMO

I don't think all Mercury are built in the USA
http://www.mercurymarine.com/about/plant-and-locations/

Sho is the future now and Mercury will have to follow soon due to Gov. regs

I have always been a huge mercury fan and since getting a skeeter / yamaha package I really enjoy the Yamaha. I had an opportunity at the C.A.S.T. Open tournament to take a test ride in the 250 SHO and it was impressive to say the least. Two people, full of fuel, and gear and get on plane in literally a couple of seconds at 3000 rpm.

I like not having to mix the oil anymore.

If I was in your shoes I would lean toward Yamaha but see where I can get the best / longest warranty for the buck. May even check on transferable warranty so you can sell it to upgrade later and pass a warranty on to a potential buyer.

GOOD LUCK with your shopping...

That is not true. Call Mercury and ask them why Yamaha has to build 4 strokes.

The Mercury will have a higher top-end speed.

Good comments. As far as the potential oil savings on the SHO, is it true that you initially save by not having to put more oil in... but later you have to switch out all the oil which costs more?

Makes sense to consider the warranty offers and service ability too. I'm a little worried about finding dealers close to me that know how to work on the SHO. The dealer I'm purchasing from is 4 hours away. Keep the comments coming.

did you consider a Verado?

The Mercury will out run the Yammi, I am a Mercury man, Yamahas are great engines, you could not go wrong with either engine. As far as it taking 7 miles to catch up with a sho, I don't know who started that one, it only takes me maybe 1/4 mile to blow the doors off a Yamaha, I like both engines, I wish Yamaha would paint them black, that might make me change brands.

love my 225 Merc EFI, she's quick. at 60 hit the WOT she'll put you back in the seat.

Take the same boat with a SHO versus the ProXs and the Merc will leave it in the dust everytime. SHO just cool cause it sounds like a car engine.

Those who haven't recommended the SHO haven't spent much time behind the wheel of one. Go try both and pick the one YOU like the best. It's truely the only way to decide. Good luck...