Vetus M3.29 vs Beta Marine Beta 30
The Vetus M3.29 is a 27 hp 3-cylinder marine diesel aimed at medium sailboats, light powerboats, and a common alternative to the Beta Marine Beta 30. Both are 3-cylinder marine diesels. The Beta Marine rates slightly higher on paper (30 hp vs 27 hp), though both target similar vessels, so installed weight, standard equipment and local support are the main differentiators.
M3.29 · 27 hp
View full specs
Beta 30 · 30 hp
At a glance: Vetus M3.29 vs Beta Marine Beta 30
Side-by-side specifications. The highlight tags are generated from the published figures — where the Beta Marine genuinely wins a measure, we show it.
Specifications sourced from manufacturer data sheets and correct at time of publishing — confirm current specifications before purchase. *Vetus warranty: 3 years standard plus a 2-year driveline extension with a Vetus around-the-engine package.
Why choose the Vetus M3.29
- High-output marine alternator fitted as standard (75 A).
- Self-bleeding fuel system — no manual bleeding after filter changes.
- Lighter installed weight — 134 kg vs 139 kg.
- Approved for HVO renewable diesel.
- Backed by Luxfords Marine, the authorised Victorian Vetus distributor — local advice, stock and genuine parts support.
Things to weigh up with the Beta Marine Beta 30
Where the Beta Marine is strong
- Robust Kubota base with cheap, globally available parts
- 5-year self-service warranty (warranty parity with Vetus)
- Excellent serviceability and strong cruiser reputation
The verdict
The Beta Marine Beta 30 is a sound choice in its own right — known for robust Kubota base with cheap, globally available parts. For recreational and cruising owners in Victoria, the Vetus M3.29 counters that it's lighter to install (134 kg vs 139 kg) — and it adds a high-output alternator as standard, a self-bleeding fuel system and local backup. As the authorised Victorian Vetus distributor, Luxfords can advise on, supply and support it locally, with genuine parts.
Vetus M3.29 vs Beta Marine Beta 30 — FAQs
Is the Vetus M3.29 lighter than the Beta Marine Beta 30?
Yes. The Vetus M3.29 has a lower dry weight (134 kg) than the Beta Marine Beta 30 (139 kg) — around 5 kg lighter on a like-for-like basis.
Can I get the Vetus M3.29 with a saildrive?
Yes — the Vetus M3.29 is available with both shaft drive and saildrive, as is the Beta Marine Beta 30.
Which has the longer warranty, the Vetus M3.29 or the Beta Marine Beta 30?
Both are well covered — Vetus offers up to a 5-year warranty (3 years standard plus a 2-year driveline extension with an around-the-engine package) and Beta offers a 5-year self-service warranty, so warranty isn't a deciding factor between these two.
Where can I buy the Vetus M3.29 in Victoria?
Luxfords Marine Industrial Solutions in Mornington is the authorised Victorian Vetus distributor and can supply, advise on and support the Vetus M3.29, including parts and around-the-engine packages. Call (03) 5973 6444 for a quote.
Get a Vetus M3.29 quote
Tell us about your vessel and we'll confirm whether the Vetus M3.29 is the right fit, with pricing, drive options and availability. As the authorised Victorian Vetus distributor, Luxfords offers local advice, stock and genuine parts support.
(03) 5973 6444Get a Quote — Vetus M3.29
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