1996 Mediterranean 54 Convertible | 54ft

Engines

Here's how the Mann D2866 LE401 stack up against other makes typically found in Med 54s

Engine Comparison – Marine Use on Mediterranean 54

Specs                                  MAN D2866 LE401                              Detroit 8V92                                  Caterpillar 3406 (E/B)  

Configuration                      Inline-6 turbo aftercooled                      V8 2-stroke turbo                            Inline-6 turbo aftercooled

Horsepower                        610–680 hp @ 2300rpm                        735–800 hp @ 2300rpm                600–800 hp @ 2300rpm

Displacement                      11.9 L                                                       12.1 L                                              14.6 L

Weight (approx.)                 2,900 lbs                                                   3,500 lbs                                          3,300 lbs

Fuel Efficiency                    ★★★★☆ (very efficient)                      ★★☆☆☆ (thirsty)                       ★★★★☆ (very good)

Reliability                            ★★★★☆                                              ★★☆☆☆                                      ★★★★☆

Service/Parts Availability.   ★★★☆☆ (moderate, Euro eng)         ★★★★☆ (easy in U.S.).               ★★★★☆ (excellent)

Vibration/Noise                   ★★★★☆ (smooth I-6)                       ★★☆☆☆ (loud, smoky 2-stroke).  ★★★★☆ (smooth I-6)

✅ MAN D2866 LE401 (Inline-6)

• Best for: Smooth, efficient cruising.

• Pros: Great torque curve and balance from the inline-6. These are known for good midrange performance and relatively quiet operation. Much better fuel economy than the 8V92.

• Cons: Less common in the U.S. than Cats or Detroits. Euro parts and service can be pricier or slower to source.

✅ Detroit 8V92

• Best for: Simplicity and brute force if you're okay with noise and old-school charm.

• Pros: Reliable if maintained, parts are still everywhere, and every diesel tech from the '90s knows them.

• Cons: Loud, smelly, leaky, inefficient. Two-stroke cycle makes them fuel-thirsty, especially at cruise.

✅ Caterpillar 3406 (B or E)

• Best for: Long-term dependability and support.

• Pros: Widely used, well-supported, smoother than the 8V92, better economy, and more torque than the MAN D2866 at low RPM.

• Cons: Slightly heavier and physically larger. Some 3406E ECMs had bugs in early builds, but most are solid today.

Disclaimer
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.