When you're shopping for marine engine propulsion, you usually weigh cost against reliability. But every once in a while, a listing makes you stop: a Dodge V10 8.0L Indmar marine inboard engine that has never been fired. Is it a brilliant find or a risky novelty? This isn't the kind of engine you find on every dealer lot, and that's both the appeal and the risk.
Quick verdict
For a buyer who prioritizes zero-hour condition, this is a rare opportunity at $9,500. This Indmar-built engine is based on the Dodge V10 8.0L truck engine and is designed for marine use. The catch: there's no warranty. It's a specialist piece, not a universal replacement.
Who it suits
This engine suits a restorer working on a V10-powered boat, a custom builder who wants a distinctive powerplant, or a collector who appreciates unworn marine hardware. For a restorer, this is the kind of engine that gives a project a memorable story.
What stands out
Dodge V10 8.0L Indmar Marine Inboard Boat Engine Motor
The oil is still in the crankcase, and the engine was used as a show piece. There are a few scrapes and scratches from storage. The powerplant is an iron-block V10, similar to the Dodge Viper's engine but with a cast-iron block instead of aluminum. That iron-block design is built for low-end torque, which is exactly what you want when moving a boat. Output is 305 hp with 450 lb-ft of torque. It's a 4-stroke design.
A concrete reason to choose it: the low-end torque and marine-tuned V10 layout make it a strong fit for boat propulsion. A concrete limitation: the storage wear means a few scrapes and scratches are part of the deal.
Meaningful trade-offs
The scrapes and scratches are cosmetic, but they're a reminder that this engine has been in storage for years. If you're someone who likes the idea of a flawless crate motor, this one has small signs of its life before your purchase. If you're prepared to handle a few blemishes, the trade-off can feel small.
Bottom line
If you can live with no warranty and want a torquey V10 marine engine built for boat duty, this Indmar Dodge V10 8.0L is a genuinely rare find at $9,500. If you need peace of mind from a fully supported new engine, the rarity won't replace after-sales protection. It all comes down to your tolerance for a unique engine with a unique story.
