Seldom is old technology better than new, I've got an 200hp efi and it's a gas hog, wishing I had an Opti or HPDI. Go with the Optimax, you'll reget the efi on any long runs.

question here if a opti gets 5 to 7 miles a gallon what does a EFI get?

I think it's gallons per hour, isn't it?

When OptiMax came out there had lots of issues, I think most of them are now fixed

They used to be called OptiPop.......

If an Opti running at 4500 rpms and gets 5 mpg, an EFI (guess) would get around 4. At full throttle its not much of a difference. Something like 10 percent.

Realize that the difference between 4 and 5 is pretty significant.

Thanks for the input. When did the Opti's first come out?

1997, I think.

opti for fuel lots better but efi great motor lots of them around like new for 5000

My Optimax always starts in 3 seconds,doesn't smoke, and doesn't like to go to the gas station or see a mechanic.What more could you ask for?

There are a lot of variables when it comes to mpg in a boat. Hull design, size, weight, conditions all play a role. At 4000 rpm's, you could easily see speeds range from 30mph-55mph which could greatly influence mpg. Most bass boats with 200+ opti can get 5-7mpg at 3500-4000 rpms while an efi could only expect about 3-4 mpg. I personally have never gotten 4 out of an efi, but I rarely run at 3500-4000 rpm's.

With that said though, the oil, maintenance, parts, upkeep and purchase price are all cheaper on the efi. It depends on how much you fish, how hard you run, and far you run if the optimax can save you enough money at the gas pump to make up for the difference. Both are very good and reliable motors.

I agree a opti is better if you buy new there is no way I would buy a used opti without warrt.on it. they cost twice as much to rebuild than a EFI. it also depends on how much you fish. if you fish 5 days a week the opti will save you money in the long run. if you are a weekend fisherman it will take a long time to make up the difference.

+1 so many more things on an Opti to break. While in warranty that is great.
Out of warranty have fun. Make sure the price diff is worth it.

I HAVE HAD BOTH AND AS FOR MY INPUT THE OPTIMAX IS THE WAY TO GO. IT DOESN'T SMOKE, USES LESS OIL AND HALF THE GAS THAT MY EFI USED. I KEEP HALF TANK IN THE BOAT AND THEN PUT 5 GALONS IN EVERY TIME I GO FISHING. I DO NOT RUN AND GUN TO THE NEXT FISHING HOLE. LIKE SOME DO AND I RARELY GET ABOVE 60 MPH. I WILL STAY WITH OPTIMAX.

Thanks for your input guys!

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