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Tohatsu Outboard Motors: Big-Name Quality at Small-Motor Prices

Tohatsu is the value pick in almost every size it makes, and a specialist in small outboards. Here is every Tohatsu four-stroke we stock.

8 models, 2.5 to 15 HPFrom $1,100Often lowest price in class
Simple definition

Tohatsu outboard motors are gas four-stroke engines from Tohatsu, a Japanese company focused on small and mid-size outboards. Their MFS range runs from 2.5 HP portables to the fuel-injected MFS15.

The club treasurer’s spreadsheet

Ben is treasurer of a small rowing and sailing club with a fleet of safety boats that needed new motors. He was handed a budget that looked like a typo and told to “make it work.” So he built a spreadsheet: price, weight, service intervals, parts availability, for every brand at 6 and 9.8 HP.

Tohatsu kept landing on top of the value column. The club bought three MFS6 motors and one MFS9.8 and had enough left over for fuel tanks and spare props. At the next general meeting, the only question was why nobody had asked Ben to do this years ago.

How does the Tohatsu range break down?

Tohatsu focuses on the small end: single-cylinder portables, twin-cylinder 8 and 9.8 HP, and an EFI 15 HP.

ModelsCylindersFuel systemTypical boatFrom
MFS2.5 / MFS3.51CarburetorCanoes, tenders, dinghies$1,100
MFS4 / MFS5 / MFS61CarburetorInflatables, small sailboats$1,310
MFS8 / MFS9.82CarburetorJon boats, kickers, sailboats$2,250
MFS15 EFI2Fuel injection14 ft fishing boats$3,200
Analyst tip: The MFS9.8 is rated just under 9.9 HP, which keeps it inside the limit on waters that cap motors below 10 HP. It is also usually the lowest-priced motor in the 9.9 class.

Who should choose a Tohatsu outboard?

  • Value buyers who want a proven four-stroke for less.
  • Clubs, schools and fleets buying several motors at once.
  • Owners of dinghies, tenders and canoes needing 2.5 to 6 HP.
  • Anglers who want a budget 9.8 HP for a jon boat or kicker.

Tohatsu outboard motors: FAQ

Are Tohatsu outboards good?

Yes. Tohatsu is a long-established Japanese outboard maker with a strong record for simple, durable small motors at competitive prices.

What is the biggest Tohatsu we sell?

The MFS15 EFI. For 20 to 30 HP, see the Mercury, Suzuki, Yamaha and Honda options on our larger HP pages.

Why is Tohatsu cheaper than other brands?

Tohatsu specializes in small outboards and keeps its designs simple. The lower price reflects focus, not lower quality.

Can I get parts for a Tohatsu outboard?

Yes. Routine service parts such as impellers, plugs, filters and props are widely available. Contact us if you need help finding a part.

More motor, less invoice.

Pick your Tohatsu, or ask us which size suits your boat.

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