I've owned 8 Mercs in 42 years, a 4.5, 2-9.9 Pro Kickers, a 35, 2-50's, a 65, and a 150.

All in all I'd rate them a B+.
I think most big name outboards are very good, but if I were to buy another, it would be a Merc. before anything else.

Old Fishermen never die, we just get reel tired.

May you build a ladder to the stars
and climb on every rung.
May you stay......Forever young