Which motor is better for the 2003 460 express

All specs being equal the Cummins is hands down better than the Cat.
 
I evaluated a 460 around 2003-2004 and found it a very nice boat. However, the one the dealer had was equipped with the Cummins C-series engines, which I found were smoky, stinky, and noisy. I've been on a number of 410DAs with the 3126 and they're very livable engines.

I posted this a few years ago. The article was published at the time the boats you are considering were built, so it's pertinent.

Back in Feb 2003, Powerboat Reports tested Caterpillars against Cummins diesels. They were installed in identical, ugly boats. One of these ugly boats had the 6CTA8.3 engines. The other ugly boat had 3126B engines. Both advertised 450 HP, but the 6CTA8.3 were 430 brake hp, while the 3212B was a true 450 brake HP.

Both engines turned rated RPM, so the props, though not identical, were correct.

They found that the cummins boat was quieter, especially at lower RPMs. At 1000 RPM the 6CTA8.3 measured 73 dB while the 3126B measured 80 dB. That's a huge difference!

On the other hand, the 3126B boat was quicker, faster, and burned less fuel. For example, at 2500 RPM, the 3126B boat ran 1.5 knots faster while burning 7 GPH less fuel. That's $35/hr cheaper at today's prices. The 3126B also burned less fuel than the 6CTA8.3 when both boats were running the same speed across the board. The 3126B boat also accelerated faster reaching 22 kts in 12 seconds vs. 20 seconds.

PBR sent their test results to both engine manufacturers. The Cat engineer replied "I can't see any reason to argue with your numbers." The Cummins engineer said that he would expect the Cat to outperform the Cummins engines "Their fuel system is more advanced than the Cummins, which leads to better fuel economy."

One more thing I forgot. The Cummins engines were a bit less expensive, too. Probably quieter and less expensive won over better performance and economy at brunswick (you know, the junk bond company).
 
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