Hmm Something does not seem right here
Gents,
I just put in a universal M35 which is definately a new design engine. Opposed to the M40 which was derived from the 5432 engine, the 35 puts out 35hp opposed to 32 from the 40. I wanted a low turning 4 cylinder engine which put the Yanmars out of scope...they are 3 cylinder turbo's in that range if I'm not mistaken ( I may be). That being said, I believe the Beta and Universals are all based on newer kubota blocks. The westerbekes are all based on mitsubishi blocks.
I was really interested in the Beta's but the pricing is out of touch based on the currency enchange. I paid around 9K for my engine last year and have been very happy with around 250 hours on the clock.
I don't think you can go wrong with Beta, Yanmar, Universal, or Westerbeke. I would personally say find what is going to be the best cross footprint wise and take it from there. Unless the folks on the list know something I don't, the diffferences in Beta and Universal is more on the aftermarket side than anything else, at least for what I put in.
I like it but I'm sure any new engine I would have liked...hell, I like my old M40!
Cheers
Shaun