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IMO, as a Dauntless 16 owner for ten years, a 115 HP engine will result in a much better boat. Stern weight with the boat is important. Mine was very happy with a 1999 115 HP Evinrude FICHT engine but unfortunately I don't recall the weight.

If it was my choice I would look into the E-Tec 115HO engine which, though heavier than my old FICHT (I believe), should provide fantastic performance with about 130 HP output.

The Dauntless 16 is probably the best, strongest, safest small boat produced in the past several years. I often regret selling mine to buy a larger Whaler and if I had it back I'd keep it until death interfered.

Scouts are decent boats but not close to on par with Whalers, particularly in the small boat line. They are of conventional construction and offer no special features. A Google search of Scout boats may be worth your time.