Comparing the Yanmar 8LV320 to Other Diesel Engines in Its Class

Comparing the Yanmar 8LV320 to Other Diesel Engines in Its Class
Comparison with Other Class Diesel Engines of Yanmar 8LV320

In selecting a marine diesel engine, performance, dependability, fuel economy, and long-term value as a performer are some of the highest considerations. Among heavy hitters in the 300–350 horsepower class, the Yanmar 8LV320 is definitely worth a look. Here is a detailed explanation of why boat owners love the Yanmar 8LV320, its comparison with the other options such as the Cummins QSB6.7, Volvo Penta D6-330, and Mercury Diesel 3.0L, and how it may be the perfect solution for your boat. Comparing the Yanmar 8LV320 to Other Diesel Engines in Its Class


Overview: Yanmar 8LV320

Yanmar 8LV320 is a lightweight and compact V8 marine diesel engine with high smoothness, clean exhaust gas emission and fuel economy leadership. It is available with 320 horsepower at 3,800 rpm with strong power-to-weight and compact to suit even thin engine rooms.


🔧 Key Specifications

SpecificationYanmar 8LV320
Engine TypeV8, 4-stroke, direct injection
Displacement4.46 L (4461 cc)
Max Horsepower320 HP @ 3,800 RPM
Max Torque720 Nm @ 2,500 RPM
AspirationTwin Turbocharged
Cooling SystemHeat exchanger cooled
Fuel SystemCommon rail direct injection
Dry Weight450 kg (992 lbs)
Emissions ComplianceEPA Tier 3, EU RCD II
Transmission OptionsZT370 Sterndrive or Inboard
Recommended UseRecreational and light commercial

Yanmar 8LV320 vs Other Diesel Engine Performance Comparison


1. Yanmar 8LV320 vs Cummins QSB6.7 305HP

The Cummins QSB6.7 is a tough old straight-six diesel engine that produces up to 305 horsepower. The Cummins engine is powerful and torquie-y and is typically the first choice for commercial applications.

FeatureYanmar 8LV320Cummins QSB6.7 305HP
Horsepower320 HP305 HP
Torque720 Nm~800 Nm
Weight450 kg~620 kg
Emissions ComplianceEPA Tier 3, EU RCD IIEPA Tier 3, IMO Tier II
Max RPM3,8003,000

Verdict: Cummins develops slightly more torque, Yanmar 8LV320 is lighter, can rev harder, and is smaller in diameter — ideal for performance boats and leisure cruising. Cummins will suffice in heavy duty use, though, weight and space savers, by all means go Yanmar.


2. Yanmar 8LV320 vs Volvo Penta D6-330

Volvo Penta D6-330 is a strong favorite. It’s an inline-six, common-rail diesel with a great low-end torque and is well known for being friendly to Volvo’s joystick and EVC systems.

FeatureYanmar 8LV320Volvo Penta D6-330
Horsepower320 HP330 HP
Torque720 Nm760 Nm
Weight450 kg~685 kg
Max RPM3,8003,500
MaintenanceEasier access, less electronicsMore integrated systems

Verdict: Volvo Penta wins the torque but at the cost of extra weight and complexity. Yanmar 8LV320 follows smoother routes to installation and maintenance with mechanical simplicity to win the hearts of old-hand boaties. It’s simpler to do-it-yourself and remotely access.


3. Yanmar 8LV320 vs Mercury Diesel 3.0L 270HP

Mercury Diesel 3.0L is lighter and less expensive, with the possible horsepower of up to 270 horsepower. It’s best suited for mid-performance and entry-level purposes.

FeatureYanmar 8LV320Mercury Diesel 3.0L
Horsepower320 HP270 HP
Torque720 Nm550 Nm
Weight450 kg350 kg
Emissions ComplianceTier 3Tier 3
Max RPM3,8004,200

Verdict: Mercury is lighter and cheaper but doesn’t offer any long-term reliability and torque of Yanmar 8LV320. If reliability, efficiency, and top output mean something to individuals, then Yanmar gives them a lot more engine for their buck.


Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Footprint

Perhaps one of the most appealing features of the Yanmar 8LV320 could indeed be its very advanced common-rail direct injection and relatively low-cost twin-turbo setup. Together, they deliver:

  • More fuel efficiency per nautical mile
  • Lower NOx and particulate emissions
  • EPA Tier 3 and EU RCD II compliant — future-proofed for all but the most stringent regulatory regimes.

Back-to-back fuel burn tests, versus its size-class competition, showed the 8LV320 achieved 10–15% improved fuel economy, especially at mid-range RPM (2500–3200 RPM).


Why Purchase Yanmar 8LV320?

⭐ Top Reasons to Buy:

  • High Power-to-Weight: More hp per less weight.
  • Smooth and Quiet Operation: Less vibration = less noise.
  • Advanced Fuel Injection: Clean and efficient operation.
  • Easy Maintenance: Convenient access engine design for cramped engine spaces.
  • Versatility: Suitable for sterndrive and shaft drive applications.
  • After-Sales Support: Backed by Yanmar’s global network of dealers.

Real-World Applications

The Yanmar 8LV320 is ideally suited for:

  • Sportfishing boats
  • RIBs and tenders
  • Pleasure cruisers
  • Sailing yachts (as an auxiliary engine)
  • Commercial pilot and patrol boats

Its small design made it an extremely sought-after repower option for classic boats that desire today’s performance without hull overload upgrades.


🔧 Buying the Yanmar 8LV320 – We Have It Covered

Would you like to buy a Yanmar 8LV320? Good job, you’re on the way.

We offer genuine Yanmar 8LV marine diesel engines with full installation packages, technical support, and shipping arrangement. Repower or new building, we’ll set proper setting.


📦 Packages Contain:

  • New Yanmar 8LV320 Engine
  • Gearbox (optional: ZT370 sterndrive or inboard)
  • Wiring harness and ECU
  • Control panel and throttle
  • User manual and guarantee documents
  • Optional: Installation and commissioning services

💵 Price and Lead Time

Because of world shipping conditions and high demand, prices and lead times are variable. Contact us directly for a personalized quote and local stock.

We provide marine professionals such as installers, boat builders, and yacht designers with competitive pricing, quantity discount, and technical service support.


💬 Customer Testimonials

“I swapped my Bertram 28 for twin 8LV320s and am absolutely thrilled. The engines run as quiet as a whisper, are super responsive, and are very efficient. Much better than my previous gas engines!”
Mark D., Florida

“I’ve gained a lot of years of Yanmar experience as a yacht captain. The 8LV320 is in a class of its own. Heavy-duty, simple to handle, and reliable — all we required.”
Sophie G., Mediterranean Charter Captain


🏁 Conclusion: The Yanmar 8LV320 Stands in a Class of Its Own

Among 300–350HP marine diesel engine comparisons, the Yanmar 8LV320 stands at the top in performance, dependability, and value. Its light weight, very efficient fueling system, and extensively tested durability make it a preference among commercial operators and pleasure boaters alike.

If you are in the market to purchase a new installation of a marine diesel engine or an overhaul, the Yanmar 8LV320 is definitely worth the investment.


📞 Ready to Buy or Need a Quote?

Call today for quotes, packages, and expert consultation.

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