MIAMI — Introduced at the Miami International Boat Show in mid-February 2006, the 700 SCi engine from Mercury Racing is based off the same CNC machined 502 cubic inch cylinder block as the 525 EFI and 600 SCi engines. The engine's intercooler, made of copper-nickel alloy called "CuproNickel" for enhanced corrosion resistance, is 0.75" taller than that used on the 600SCi for improved engine cooling. Boost bypass is achieved via an internal cast passage. The intake also features port fuel injection and a fuel cross over passage which eliminates tee fittings by routing fuel to both port and starboard fuel rails for enhanced engine aesthetics.

The 700 SCi is paired with Mercury Racing's all new dry-sump ACE drive. The drive, which fills the gaps between the Bravo XR and No. 6. Dry-sump units, is robust enough to handle engines between 600 and 800 horsepower with an input torque rating of 800 foot-pounds. The engine/transom plate/drive package is nearly 200 pounds lighter than a comparable engine outfitted with a standard size transmission and dry-sump Six drive. Both the drive and transmission feature dry-sump lubrication for higher efficiency and reduced operating temperatures.

The unique through-hull location of the compact transmission enables the transmission to be installed after the engine is first mounted. Access to the transmission from the transom also allows the transmission to be removed and serviced without having to pull the complete engine.

Key features of the ACE drive include a removable transom assembly cowling for easier access and an interchangeable water pick-up at the rear of the gear case torpedo. An added plus, the ACE drive accepts through-hub exhaust five-blade Maximus propellers and over-hub cleaver propellers.

In the engine, an induction hardened, micro-alloy crankshaft features larger journal radii for enhanced strength and durability. Connecting rods feature a floating wrist pin as well as stronger rod bolts for enhanced engine durability. A new camshaft design provides increased valve lift for enhanced power and torque. The oil flow rate has been increased for enhanced engine protection throughout the engine operating range. The 700SCi is the first engine to come standard with Mercury Racing's new universal engine mount system. The new mounts enable OEM boat builders to install the engine in virtually any hull configuration with ease.

The 700SCi is also the first engine to feature Mercury Racing's new large capacity power steering reservoir. It is intended to eliminate the need for additional after market reservoirs used by boat builders today.

Engine aesthetics are new with the carbon fiber reservoir covers, polished pulleys, and selected components painted slate grey.