I just have to ask one question, why? The happiest day on my E-27 was restoring the A4 and getting the blasted outboard off the transom (who really needs 80+ pounds hanging on their transom?). My E-27 was originally A4 powered, someone had pulled it and hung an outboard on her, and it well, sucked. Get yourself into some rough weather with the outboard's prop pulling out of the water, and you'll want the inboard. Try motoring for long periods dead into 25 knots of wind, you'll want the A4, and on I could go. As far as sailing characteristics, the A4 isn't that heavy, and it is way down low compared to an outboard way up high. I never felt like I lost any sailing quality for my A4 restoration. And the security and peace of mind of having a powerful engine down low when needed, a key turn away with wife and kids is quite nice. Also, ever try to service an outboard leaning over the transom bouncing up and down - especially out in the middle of a big piece of water? I also wouldn't go gutting the transom apart. I would be very concerned about structural issues. Of course, you can completely ignore me, and I know the E-27 was sold with outboards, but I've lived with both, and wouldn't have anything but an inboard in her. Just my .02, and worth what you paid. Also, no one needs to waste their time telling me I am wrong. I have my opinion based on my personal needs and experience, and I'm stubborn on a good day
-David
Independence 31
Emerald
edit 6/8/05:
just wanted to add that I don't mean to come off as ranting above, and I am fully aware that if you are racing, playing the rating game etc., there may be reasons why you want the outboard instead. Part of my emphaticness (real word?) and then following comments about no need to write back regarding my opinions, is that I know we could set off a whole debate on the issue without any real benefit. I just wanted to provide some honest to life experiences having had the same boat configured both ways.
In any event, happy sailing