Vetus M3.29 vs Yanmar 3YM20
The Vetus M3.29 is a 27 hp 3-cylinder marine diesel aimed at medium sailboats, light powerboats, and a common alternative to the Yanmar 3YM20. Both are 3-cylinder marine diesels. The Vetus makes a little more power (27 hp vs 21 hp), though both target similar vessels, so standard equipment, serviceability and local support are what separate them.
M3.29 · 27 hp
View full specs
3YM20 · 21 hp
At a glance: Vetus M3.29 vs Yanmar 3YM20
Side-by-side specifications. The highlight tags are generated from the published figures — where the Yanmar 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.
- 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 Yanmar 3YM20
Where the Yanmar is strong
- Own-design engines with a strong reputation
- Cheaper consumables/parts, widely available
- Strong Australian distributor support
- GM and YM series run to 3,600 rpm — higher rated speed than the lower-revving Vetus M4 engines, which can mean more noise at cruise.
The verdict
The Yanmar 3YM20 is a sound choice in its own right — known for own-design engines with a strong reputation. For recreational and cruising owners in Victoria, the Vetus M3.29 makes its case on standard equipment — a high-output alternator and self-bleeding fuel — and on local backup rather than headline specs. As the authorised Victorian Vetus distributor, Luxfords can advise on, supply and support it locally, with genuine parts.
Vetus M3.29 vs Yanmar 3YM20 — FAQs
Is the Vetus M3.29 lighter than the Yanmar 3YM20?
Not in this case — the Yanmar 3YM20 is the lighter of the two (110 kg vs 134 kg for the Vetus M3.29).
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 Yanmar 3YM20.
Which has the longer warranty, the Vetus M3.29 or the Yanmar 3YM20?
Vetus offers up to a 5-year warranty (3 years standard plus a 2-year driveline extension with a Vetus around-the-engine package). Yanmar's Australian warranty terms vary — confirm the current Yanmar cover with the supplier so you're comparing like-for-like.
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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