Lets start off with some history, the first “inboard/outboard,” or sterndrive was introduced by Johnson Motor Company in 1930, but the need to redesign most boats to accommodate the new system resulted in poor sales.
Many years later, the official story of how the modern sterndrive was eventually introduced held that a former Kiekhaefer Mercury engineer, Jim Wynne, overcame the inherent design difficulties by introducing a double universal joint that allowed the drive to swing back and forth for steering, and tilt up and down. The result was an engine and drive with the maneuverability of an outboard and the power of an inboard.
In 1983 Mercruiser introduced the R/MR/Alpha 1 series of sterndrive models. Later on the twin-prop Bravo Three made its debut in 1992.
In recent years Mercury has brought out some of the most reliable and powerful engines made. They are known to be best-in-class reliability, dependability, and have long-lasting performance.
Mercruiser and Mercury engines have ultra response acceleration and impressive maneuverability, they have an extensive range of outboard, sterndrive, inboard and tow-sport engines.
The advantages to a sterndrive are the vessel design and ability to offer larger horsepower options and for those looking to do water sport, it can be beneficial having a rear swim platform without a motor protruding in the middle. A sterndrive also opens up the design options, making it possible to have a rear sun bed.
Mercury has the largest marine sales and service dealership network in Australia and New Zealand.
