Feb 16

Feb 16 Mercury Racing Launches the Incredible V10 400R: Big Power and Big Features

With an amazing 50th anniversary party in Miami, Mercury Racing revealed the new 5.7L V10 400R. This isn’t just another engine launch though; this is a culmination of focus, innovation and leadership that has been building for years. Mercury Racing is a premier brand, making the most cutting edge marine performance products on the market. They have been doing it for a while but now the brand is firmly in a class of its own and the 400R is a big part of that. Let’s take a look at what is so incredible about the new V10.

Stuart Halley, the general manager of Mercury Racing, presents the V10 400R at the 50th anniversary party. In its remarkable history, I can’t remember a more exciting time when it comes to innovation and new products from Mercury Racing. Under the guidance of Stuart Halley, the team from Wisconsin has updated and revamped the entire lineup, most notably the new outboard four stroke architecture.

There is no replacement for displacement, as the saying goes and it is more true on the water. With the V10 platform, a smooth power delivery is just part of it. Revving to 6,600 RPM, and with a weight of 695 Lbs in its lightest form, the 400R is a class leader in everyway. What is new is the optional fully electric integrated steering, which I think is great direction. This is a robust system that is more precise than a traditional hydraulic system due to a sophisticated scroll gear, and much easier to rig and maintain. You can also get the Verado style electro hydraulic system for easy repowering. The Racing AMS midsection is standard, and the integrated tie bar is optional.

The popular sport cat setup seen here with the tie bar and the V10 400R sport master version.

As you would expect, multiple shaft lengths, 20” to 35” for deep multiengine boats. And the familiar sport master gearcase, along with the 5.44” HD case; both with 1.60:1 gear ratios. The 400R is built for speed. With technology derived from the big QC4 engines to deliver full power on 87 octane. Also featuring a large 92 mm throttle body, tuned intake, fuel pressure sensor and you get the smoothest 400+ HP outboard on the planet. Range optimization ensures the best efficiency possible at every speed. The feedback I received at the dock from those who have run it is that efficiency is impressive over a large RPM range.

Offered in white or black, Racing is now providing a ready to paint option as well, catering to the popularity of fully custom colors in the aftermarket. There was also a new propellor announced that is a 15” diameter four blade designed to withhold the power of the new outboards on center consoles, bay boats and performance cruisers. Offered in 18” to 27.5” pitch, this is a really nice prop suitable for a wide range of hulls.

The V10 slots perfectly above the dynamic 300R and just below the 450R. But, the V10 is certainly a pinnacle in luxury and performance for Mercury Racing. Perfect for performance center consoles and popular sport cats, the big 400R checks all the boxes. What stands out to me is that the size and weight are class leading at this power, and the new features like fully electric steering. The Mercury Racing team really gets their market and they continue to inspire and amaze, pushing what anyone thought was possible in marine performance.

Mercury Racing 400R Website

A big single application seen on this Yellowfin bay boat.

Mercury Racing also announced a new prop built specifically for big power, where the setup is semi surfacing, large center consoles, performance bay boats and others. A 15” 4 blade wheel called the Ventera, with a super strong blade design, pitches from 18” to 27.5”. Available in a pro finish or a lab finish as well.