Yamaha unveils new F350 in Melbourne

Yamaha says the new F350 delivers unprecedented power to weight performance from the world's first V8 production outboard engine.

The F350 is the first four-stroke outboard motor to utilise a V8 powerhead. With a displacement of 5330cc, the 32-Valve DOHC V8 engine delivers a maximum power output of 257.4 kW (350 hp) at the prop shaft, which is the highest horsepower rating for an outboard motor in the world today, said Yamaha.

Since its international release at the Miami International Boat Show in Florida, Yamaha said Australian boaters have waited several months to catch a glimpse of the F350 and it will be available in the final quarter of 2007.

"We knew Australian boaters would really appreciate the power and performance of our new V8 outboard," said Brett Hampson, national sales and marketing manager for Marine Products at Yamaha Motor Australia.

"This new model is a huge boost for the Australian market, and now boat manufacturers and boaters alike have a realistic power alternative to the traditional sterndrive system. This is great news for boaters who demand both outboard power and a big offshore hull," he said.

Yamaha said the massive power and torque of the F350 ensures a big boost in speed, acceleration and performance; and larger multi-hull boats will appreciate the torque advantage of a V8 engine when moving several tonnes of hull onto the plane with a 45 per cent increase in thrust than a conventional 250hp four-stroke outboard.

Variable Camshaft Timing is utilised to give the F350 more torque at low and mid-range rpm. A larger gear shaft is adopted for increased strength plus an automatic rpm synchronization function can be employed for multi-engine use (up to three engines).

For further info, phone (07) 3906 7000, or visit www.yamaha-motor.com.au