Looking for the perfect portable outboard for your dinghy, sailboat, or small skiff? The Suzuki DF6A and Tohatsu MFS6 are two of the most popular 6hp four-stroke motors on the market. Both are known for light weight, easy starting, and simple, reliable operation. But which one is right for your boat and boating style? Here’s a complete side-by-side comparison of Suzuki 6hp vs Tohatsu 6hp outboards to help you make the best choice.
Quick Picks
- Best Overall: Suzuki DF6A – Smooth running, light weight, excellent reputation for reliability and easy maintenance.
- Best Value: Tohatsu MFS6 – One of the lightest and most affordable 6hp outboards with a strong track record for durability.
- Best for Sailboats: Tohatsu MFS6 Sail Pro – High-thrust prop, long shaft, and charging capability for small sailboats and tenders.
Buyer’s Guide
When choosing between Suzuki and Tohatsu 6hp outboards, keep these points in mind:
- Weight: Both are lightweight, but Tohatsu MFS6 is often the lightest in class (just under 55 lbs), making it easy to lift, mount, or store. Suzuki DF6A is also very light (about 54 lbs) and easy to manage.
- Fuel System: Both use reliable carburetors for easy starting and simple operation. No EFI at this size.
- Starting: Both motors feature easy manual start, and are known for starting on the first or second pull.
- Tank Options: Both offer internal fuel tanks for true portability, with the option to connect to an external tank for longer range.
- Vibration & Noise: Suzuki is known for smooth, quiet operation, while Tohatsu has made major improvements to reduce vibration in recent models.
- Features: Tohatsu’s Sail Pro version adds a high-thrust prop, extra-long shaft, and charging coil, ideal for sailboats.
- Dealer & Warranty: Suzuki has a large network and long reputation for reliability. Tohatsu is trusted worldwide and often more affordable up front.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Suzuki DF6A
Who it’s for: Boaters wanting quiet, fuel-efficient, and reliable power for dinghies, small inflatables, and tenders.
- Key Benefits:
- Very light at just 54 lbs (short shaft), easy to move and mount solo.
- Ultra-smooth running and quiet at idle and low speed.
- Simple manual start, low-maintenance carbureted design.
- Internal fuel tank (1 liter) with external connection option.
- Pros:
- Great for quick trips and easy stowing.
- Good fuel economy and reliable for years of service.
- Large dealer network and strong resale value.
- Cons:
- No charging coil (not suitable for running electronics or charging batteries).
- Smaller internal tank than some rivals.
Final Verdict: A reliable, user-friendly choice for most small boaters and families. Check DF6A pricing
2. Tohatsu MFS6
Who it’s for: Boaters looking for a light, simple, and affordable outboard for dinghies, small fishing boats, or as a backup.
- Key Benefits:
- Ultra-lightweight at under 55 lbs (short shaft), easy to lift and store.
- Very easy to start and operate—simple controls and maintenance.
- Internal fuel tank with external option for longer trips.
- Pros:
- Great price, especially new or used.
- Available in multiple shaft lengths (short, long, extra-long for Sail Pro).
- Excellent reliability—many Mercury and Mariner small outboards are built by Tohatsu.
- Cons:
- Basic features (no advanced tech or digital monitoring).
- Can be a little louder at wide open throttle compared to Suzuki.
Final Verdict: Ideal for those who want simplicity, portability, and the lowest price in a name-brand 6hp. See MFS6 pricing
3. Tohatsu MFS6 Sail Pro
Who it’s for: Sailors needing a high-thrust, long-shaft outboard with battery charging for pocket cruisers and larger tenders.
- Key Benefits:
- High-thrust propeller for better pushing power in currents and wind.
- Extra-long shaft (25") available for deep transoms and sailboats.
- Charging coil allows battery charging while under way.
- Pros:
- Specifically designed for sailboats and displacement hulls.
- Affordable and widely available.
- Cons:
- Heavier than standard MFS6 in extra-long version.
- Noisy at higher RPMs compared to larger outboards.
Final Verdict: Perfect for sailboat owners needing a small, capable engine with charging power. See Sail Pro pricing
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Specs / Weight | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suzuki DF6A | Smooth, quiet, reliable | 6hp, 4-stroke, ~54 lbs | Check DF6A pricing |
| Tohatsu MFS6 | Ultra-light, affordable, simple | 6hp, 4-stroke, ~55 lbs | See MFS6 pricing |
| Tohatsu MFS6 Sail Pro | High-thrust, charging coil, long shaft | 6hp, 4-stroke, ~57-59 lbs (longer shaft) | See Sail Pro pricing |
FAQ Section
- Q: Which is lighter—Suzuki DF6A or Tohatsu MFS6?
A: Both are among the lightest 6hp outboards—Suzuki DF6A at about 54 lbs and Tohatsu MFS6 just under 55 lbs. Both are very portable and easy to manage. - Q: Which starts easier?
A: Both are known for easy manual starting and rarely need more than one or two pulls. - Q: Does either have battery charging capability?
A: Only the Tohatsu MFS6 Sail Pro version comes with a charging coil for topping up batteries underway—great for sailboats with nav lights or electronics. - Q: Are these outboards quiet?
A: Suzuki is slightly quieter and smoother, especially at idle and low speed. Tohatsu has improved vibration and noise on recent models. - Q: What about warranty and support?
A: Both have solid reputations for reliability and offer good warranty coverage. Suzuki has a larger dealer network in North America, but Tohatsu is easy to service in most regions.
Conclusion
Both the Suzuki DF6A and Tohatsu MFS6 are excellent portable outboards—lightweight, reliable, and easy to own. Suzuki is a great pick for those who want the smoothest, quietest ride and a large dealer network. Tohatsu stands out for price, simplicity, and for sailboat owners, the Sail Pro model’s high-thrust prop and charging coil. Either engine will deliver years of dependable service for your small boat adventures.