I believe Tohatsu makes Mercs small motors. I have a Tohatsu 8 on my small boat and it does fine. Now Tohatsu sells a 150 and so but they are a Honda rebranded and on the net you can shave about 4k off comparable motor cost. In small motors ( all really ) most do fine and it is about having a good dealer to take care of you down the road. Personal preference has a lot to do with it in the end right along how you feel about sales tax vs local dealer.