OMC - Johnson versus Evinrude

[brw0513]

I've wondered for years why OMC sold both Johnson and Evinrude outboards.

Was one brand marketed to the rich and the other to the poor?

What was the distinction between brands?

For a new buyer, how did they choose between brands?

[Joe Reeves]

The only difference between the two brands is the color of the paint. The two brands came to be due to the fact that either Mr Evinrude or Mr Johnson alone started the outboard manufacturing process... (Mr Olie Evinrude?), then Mr Johnson joined in later with the business joining agreement to be that both names would be given to the engines..... Something on that order.

How to decide which to buy?..... Which color do you like better?

[brw0513]

Thanks Joe.

Did you hear any good Evinrude vs Johnson jokes?

I had an outboard wrecker tell me one day he was glad to hear I had a Johnson. He said all the best parts went into the Johnsons and the factory seconds were for the Evinrudes.