... I bought a 9.9 4S in 2004 (Outboard Magazine's Outboard of the Year) and loved that engine, wow. Never a problem, started first pull every time, purred like a kitten, sipped gas. It was great, I couldn't get over how quiet the engine was and how smooth it ran. Two years ago I upgraded to a 15 4S and bought a Suzuki. Weight was a major factor for me, the Suz at 100 pounds, the Tohatsu, Honda & others all around 120#. I like the Suzuki, but it's not at the same level of the Tohatsu, IMO.

Honestly ... I don't think you can go wrong with any of the top manufacturers ... everyone will have their opinions, but I think they all are basically the same.

cheers, John