UNfortunately, given the pollution and noise, 2 strokes are where outboard jet power is at. The four strokes are much heavier for a given power. When I last checked, you paid about a 200 lb weight penalty for going 4 stroke. That's like adding another person to your boat. You'll notice it.

The jet unit is the same, regardless of the engine. They're all made by San Leandro MFG, as far as I know. It just matters how big the power is on top of them, and the weight they are pushing.

If you are looking at the 19 ft North River hull, I have the 12 degree hull, and love, love, love it. I got it with the 175 hp sportjet, and love that as well. I have had outboard sleds, and they certainly give you a bit more room. But the sportjet has power out the kazoo, and the overall boat has worked very well for me. I fish the sound, the Sky, the chehalis, and the Columbia. I and my friends couldn't be happier.

The sportjet is neat because it weighs the same as an outboard, but has the efficiency of an inboard. Outboard jets get about 70% efficiancy for a given power, compared to a prop, inboards get about 95%. The trade off is the motor housing in the boat. I strongly suggest you try one out, just so you know.

My 2 cents. I know that there are those that believe sportjets are an evil pox on the earth. I just like mine.

Good luck and have fun buying your new boat.