In the world of marine engines and propulsion, choosing an outboard for a small boat often comes down to a trade-off: a brand-new, lightweight engine that's easy to handle, or a more powerful vintage name that has been around for decades. In this head-to-head, we're looking at a compact 52CC outboard and a 1976 Evinrude short shaft. Both are 2-stroke options, but they serve different boating situations.
Quick verdict
The 52CC outboard is the practical choice for very small craft like inflatables, rubber boats, and lightweight fishing boats, especially if you want a new motor at $165.63. The Evinrude short shaft brings noticeably more power and the pedigree of a long-standing marine brand, but it's a vintage 1976 model with a much higher price. For most occasional small-boat users, the 52CC offers the clearer path; for boaters who need extra push on medium-sized boats and appreciate vintage engineering, the Evinrude is the stronger option.
Comparison
| Feature | 2.3 HP 52CC Outboard | 1976 Evinrude 6 HP Short Shaft |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $165.63 | $500.00 |
| Price level | ||
| Condition | New | Used |
| Horsepower | 2.3 HP | 6 HP |
| Typical use | Inflatable, rubber, and fishing boats | Small to medium boats |
Where each product wins
- The 2.3 HP outboard wins on new condition, lower listed price, and lightweight design for very small craft.
- The Evinrude wins on power and brand heritage: 6 HP gives it a clear advantage for small to medium boats that need extra thrust.
Product notes
Outboard Boat Engine Motor For All Kinds of Small Boats 2 Stroke 2.3 HP 52CC
If you're rigging an inflatable, rubber boat, or a modest fishing boat, this 2.3 HP motor is the straightforward choice. It's a 52cc 2-stroke with forced air cooling, a diaphragm carburetor, and CDI ignition. It uses a gasoline-oil mix at a 25:1 ratio, and the specs say it can run for 40-70 minutes on a full tank - helpful for a short day on the water. The main limitation is its power ceiling: at 2.3 HP, it won't push a larger boat with confidence, and the listing cites an applicable boat size within 2.5 meters / 8.2 feet. If your craft is bigger or you need to plane through chop, this motor will feel underpowered.
1976 Evinrude 6 Hp 2 Stroke Model #: 6604A Short Shaft Outboard Motor
This is a used 1976 Evinrude 6 HP short shaft, and its appeal lies in that extra horsepower. With 6 HP on tap, it's designed for small to medium boats, giving you more acceleration and speed range than the 2.3 HP. The Evinrude name is well-known in marine circles, and the model number 6604A is clearly listed. The short shaft designation is also part of the title, so you know exactly what you're looking at. But the listing clearly marks it as used and includes no warranty, so you're taking on any maintenance issues yourself. If the engine has been well cared for, that power is worth it; if not, you could be buying a project. In short, this Evinrude is a pick for someone who values horsepower and brand legacy over the convenience of a brand-new engine.
Final choice by use case
Choose the 52CC outboard if you want a low-cost motor for a small inflatable, rubber boat, or fishing craft within about 8.2 feet, and you prioritize easy handling and a fresh engine over raw power. Choose the 1976 Evinrude short shaft if you have a larger small-scale boat, need more thrust, and are comfortable with a vintage motor that has no warranty - and are willing to pay $500 for that extra capability.
