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Yamaha HO and SVHO Engine Specs and Review [Chart]

Yamaha HO and SVHO Engine Specs and Review [Chart]

The Yamaha HO and SVHO are purpose-built marine engines used in Yamaha jet boats and WaveRunners. These power sources are 4-stroke, fuel-injected, DOHC, 4-cylinder engines that are manufactured in both naturally-aspirated (HO) and supercharged (SVHO) configurations.

If you want to find out more about these two engines, you’ve come to the right place.

We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know under one roof!

What are Yamaha HO and SVHO Engines?

Yamaha HO and SVHO marine engines are internal combustion gasoline engines designed for WaveRunners and jet boats. Currently, you can find three different engines in this fleet, including the 1.8L HO (180hp), the supercharged 1.8L SVHO (250hp), and the new 1.9L HO (200hp).

Let’s drill into the details and take a closer look at each!

Yamaha 1.8L HO and 1.8L SVHO Engines

The Japanese manufacturer introduced these high-performance marine power sources in 2013 for the 2014 model year. They debuted in the race-inspired FZ WaveRunner series but they found their way to other Yamaha vessels.

Today, these engines are used in many high-performance (HO and SVHO) WaveRunners, as well as in many great Yamaha jet boats.

Unlike the 1049cc, TR-1 engine, which is derived from the Yamaha R1 motorcycle line, the HO and SVHO are purpose-built marine engines designed from scratch.

They 1.8L HO and 1.8L SVHO are built from the same base engine, the features of which are as follows:

Yamaha 1.8L HO and 1.8L SVHO Specs List

  • Type: 4-stroke, in-line
  • Cylinders: 4-cylinder
  • Displacement: 1812cc
  • Bore: 86 mm
  • Stroke: 78 mm
  • Valves: 16 valves
  • Cam configuration: DOHC
  • Cooling: Open-Loop
  • Fuel Supply System: Electronic Fuel Injection
  • Lubrication System: Wet Sump
  • Total Oil Capacity: 5.6 qrt.
  • Manufacturer: Yamaha
What is the difference between HO and SVHO?

In a nutshell, the SVHO is the supercharged and intercooled configuration, which has a higher compression ratio (11.0:1), runs on premium gasoline and delivers more engine power (250 HP). In contrast, the HO has a compression ratio of 8.5:1, runs on regular gas, and delivers 180 HP.

These engines are paired with an 8-vane, axial-flow, single-stage jet pump for maximum thrust.

Yamaha 1.9L HO Engine

Released for the 2024 season, the new Yamaha 1.9L HO engine is a larger, more advanced configuration of the proven 1.8L HO.

But contrary to popular belief, the 1.9L HO is not just a big-bore version of its predecessor.

Instead, the engine was heavily redesigned with many new features including a revamped camshaft, throttle body, cylinder head, and exhaust manifold.

The diameter of the pistons was increased by 2 millimeters (bore: 88mm) while the stroke remained uncharged. This small change in the engine architecture enlarged the displacement from 1812cc to 1898cc, which makes the 1.9L HO the largest-displacement PWC engine in the industry.

This engine also enjoys a revamped cooling system and a less restrictive air intake system.

Thanks to these features, the performance of the 1.9L HO Yamaha Marine engine is a whopping 200hp out of the box.

In 2024, this engine will be exclusively available on the GP HO and VX Cruiser/Limited HO models, but we’re sure that it will find its way into other “HO” Yamaha PWCs and jet boats.

This means that the naturally aspirated 1.8L HO will be more than likely phased out by this new 1.9L HO sometime soon.

Yamaha HO vs. SVHO Comparison Chart

For a better comparison, we’ve compiled the differences between these three engines into this Yamaha SVHO vs. HO comparison chart:
Specs1.8L HO1.8L SVHO1.9L HO
Displacement1812cc1812cc1898cc
Cylinders444
Bore x Stroke86 x 78 mm86 x 78 mm88 x 78 mm
SuperchargedNoYesNo
IntercooledNoYesNo
Compression Ratio11.0:18.5:111.2:1
Recommended FuelRegular UnleadedPremium UnleadedRegular Unleaded
Engine Power180 HP250 HP200 HP
Pump Diameter (WaveRunners)155 mm160 mm155 mm
This chart is for informational purposes only! For exact specifications, please refer to the factory manual.

Takeaways – FAQs About Yamaha HO and SVHO Engines

As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the HO and SVHO Yamaha marine engines.

What is the Difference Between HO and SVHO?

As a rule of thumb, the SVHO (250hp) is boosted with a supercharger while the HOs are its naturally aspirated siblings.

The HO series includes the ongoing 1.8L HO (1,812cc, 180hp) and the new 1.9L HO (1,898cc, 200hp).

What does HO Stand for?

HO here stands for “High Output.”

What does SVHO Stand for?

SVHO here stands for “Super Vortex High Output.”

Is the SVHO Supercharged?

Yes, Yamaha’s SVHO engine is boosted with a supercharger and intercooler.

Is the Yamaha SVHO reliable?

The Yamaha SVHO engine is known as one of the most reliable supercharged marine engines. When it comes to jet ski engines, the SVHO features the biggest displacement paired with a carefully-designed, low-maintenance supercharger. These features ensure more reliability and durability than competitor engines.

For example, the supercharger shaft or Sea-Doo PWC-s penetrates into the engine block. In case of a supercharger washer failure, metal debris could find its way into the engine internals much easier.

In contrast, Yamaha’s supercharger is much more separated from the engine internals. You can see the difference between the two designs in the picture below:Sea-Doo vs. WaveRunner SuperchargersKawasaki Jet Skis come with a belt-driven supercharger, which also requires more care and offers lower reliability.

How Much Horsepower Does a Yamaha HO Have?

The 1.8L HO Yamaha marine engine is rated at 180hp while the 1.9L HO delivers 200hp.

How Much Horsepower does a Yamaha SVHO Have?

The Yamaha SVHO marine engine is rated at 250 HP out of the box. With some aftermarket mods, it can even reach an amazing 350 HP!

How Fast is a Yamaha SVHO?

As a rule of thumb, WaveRunners with SVHO engines can reach a top speed of 65-70 mph, while Yamaha jet boats with the same engine top out at about 45-50 mph.

What Year did Yamaha Introduce the SVHO?

Yamaha released its SVHO engine in 2013 for the 2014 model year.

How Much Does a Yamaha SVHO Engine Weigh?

Although official specifications are not available, based on our research the Yamaha SVHO engine weighs about 260 lbs.

What is a Yamaha SHO Motor?

The Yamaha SHO was the predecessor of the more advanced SVHO. This engine was an 1812cc, fuel-injected, 4-cylinder, in-line engine rated at 235 HP.

Which Jet Ski Engine is the Biggest?

In terms of displacement, the biggest jet ski engine right now is the Yamaha 1.9L HO, displacing 1898cc. Surprisingly, this power mill is “only” rated at 200 HP, while the rival flagship Sea-Doo and Kawasaki engines produce 325 and 310 HP, respectively.