Volvo Penta V8-380

Volvo Penta has introduced a new V-8 featuring significant weight savings and the latest in variable-valve-timing technology.

By Capt. Richard Thiel

October 18, 2012

Starting at $22,388; www.volvopenta.com

Volvo Penta has introduced a new V-8 featuring significant weight savings and the latest in variable-valve-timing technology. Features like a new aluminum exhaust system help contribute to a savings of 270 pounds, says the company. Mated to Volvo’s DuoProp stern drive, the package carries a listed gross weight of 1,076 pounds.

Mindful of today’s changing fuel situation, the V8-380 can accommodate a mixture of up to 10 percent ethanol. Minimum required octane is 87, thanks to a 9.67:1 compression ratio, so no premium fuel is required.

Based on General Motors’ 6.0-liter truck engine, the V8-380 is said to combine durability and performance in a compact package.

This article originally appeared in the November 2012 issue of Power & Motoryacht magazine.

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Capt. Richard Thiel

Raised in San Diego, Richard grew up on boats—admittedly, mostly sailboats. He actually didn't purchase his first powerboat, a 19-foot SeaCraft center console, until after he moved to Jupiter, Florida, in 1980. From the moment he launched Last Resort, he was hooked on powerboats, so much so that he decided to parlay his love of them and his experience as a diesel mechanic into a career as a freelance boating writer. Thiel went on to serve as Power & Motoryacht's editor-in-chief for 25 years and contributed to the magazine until his passing in 2016.