Vintage hull, modern engine: a possible match?

Browsing through listings for vintage boats, you will encounter various types of advertisements: some feature motorboats with their original, period-correct engines, while others are powered by more modern propulsion systems.

Undoubtedly, a hull with its original vintage engine holds greater charm, especially in the case of outboards, where the modern aesthetic of the cowlings often clashes with the lines of a classic boat. On the other hand, a modern engine is certainly more reliable and ensures more peaceful cruising for daily use, along with lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions.

A vintage boat collector would certainly turn up their nose at the prospect of a hull with a replaced engine. However, there is a third pairing option that can satisfy everyone without devaluing the historic vessel.

The choice to preserve the original engine—if it still exists—while mounting a modern one for more intensive use allows the historical engine to be swapped back in for vintage boat rallies. Gianalberto Zanoletti, president of ASDEC, shares his view on the matter: ‘The purpose of an association like ours is to preserve the historical heritage of boating; therefore, it is only logical that a vintage boat equipped with its original engine has a definite “plus” compared to one where the motor has been replaced. In specific cases of highly significant or one-of-a-kind vessels, the absence of the original powertrain is a major handicap that diminishes the hull’s value.’

However, if an enthusiast wishes to use their historic boat not just for the occasional rally, but for regular leisure boating, I believe they can certainly install a more modern and reliable engine—on one condition: that they keep the original power unit, ideally in working order. In doing so, the intrinsic value of the boat remains completely intact, and it remains historic in every respect. At the same time, this ensures safer operation, with the added benefits of lower fuel consumption and reduced pollution.

The boat we are presenting perfectly exemplifies these points. It is an outboard hull built in the early 1950s on Lake Maggiore by the master shipwright Giovanni Sardo, who during those years produced several motorboats and rowing or motor-powered launches.

The hull features lines typical of the era, designed for leisure use but also suitable, when needed, for powerboat racing; it was originally powered by a 25 hp 1956 Johnson ‘Big Twin’ outboard.

While the hull was in good condition and seaworthy, the engine was only in fair shape at the time of purchase. In 1956, the 25 hp Johnson outboard was a staple in powerboat racing; after replacing some electrical components, the old Johnson started up without a hitch. However, the mechanical overhaul was halted because the lower unit could not be removed to replace the water pump impeller: due to corrosion, there was a high risk of shearing off all the cylinder block studs! At that point, after evaluating the costs, the decision was made to proceed with an aesthetic restoration only, returning the engine to its original livery.

Once the work was completed, the ‘Big Twin’—in its striking lizard green with original decals—is now proudly displayed on a period-correct engine stand painted in the same color. Meanwhile, a modern 30 hp ‘Mariner’ outboard has been mounted on the hull, ensuring safe outings on the water and performance that is nothing short of exhilarating.

Since the new engine’s colors—with its very flashy decals—clashed with the hull’s aesthetics, the cowling was sanded down and repainted in silver-grey to match the rest of the motor. However, once repainted, it looked quite dull—almost like a piece of military equipment. It needed something that would brighten it up and give it a vintage feel without being too gaudy. The choice was to apply the ASDEC logo stickers on the sides, featuring the association’s iconic burgee. Thanks to this treatment, even the modern engine has taken on a vintage look—at least, and fortunately, only in its appearance!