Vetus M4.56 vs Bukh DV48 RME
The Vetus M4.56 is a 52 hp 4-cylinder marine diesel aimed at demanding sail/power applications, and a common alternative to the Bukh DV48 RME. The Vetus is a 4-cylinder and the Bukh a 3-cylinder unit. The Vetus makes a little more power (52 hp vs 48 hp), though both target similar vessels, so drive options — the Vetus offers a saildrive — along with weight and support are what set them apart.
M4.56 · 52 hp
View full specs
DV48 RME · 48 hp
At a glance: Vetus M4.56 vs Bukh DV48 RME
Side-by-side specifications. The highlight tags are generated from the published figures — where the Bukh 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 M4.56
- High-output marine alternator fitted as standard (110 A).
- Self-bleeding fuel system — no manual bleeding after filter changes.
- Lighter installed weight — 206 kg vs 275 kg.
- Available with shaft drive or saildrive.
- Lower rated engine speed (3000 rpm vs 3600 rpm) for quieter, less-stressed cruising.
- Backed by Luxfords Marine, the authorised Victorian Vetus distributor — local advice, stock and genuine parts support.
Things to weigh up with the Bukh DV48 RME
Where the Bukh is strong
- Genuine own-design, heavy-duty continuous-rated marine engine
- SOLAS/DNV approvals, multiple redundant starting systems
- Built for commercial, lifeboat and rescue duty
- Premium commercial/safety-grade pricing — substantially more engine (and cost) than a recreational vessel typically needs.
- Heavy for the power output (e.g. ~210 kg for a 24-32 hp DV) versus much lighter recreational diesels.
- Shaft-drive only; no saildrive option for sailboat installs.
The verdict
The Bukh DV48 RME is a sound choice in its own right — known for genuine own-design, heavy-duty continuous-rated marine engine. If your vessel genuinely needs heavy-duty, continuously-rated, SOLAS-grade power, Bukh is purpose-built for it. For most recreational and cruising owners, though, the Vetus M4.56 offers the better balance of performance, lighter weight and saildrive flexibility for leisure use — and it's backed locally by Luxfords here in Victoria.
Vetus M4.56 vs Bukh DV48 RME — FAQs
Is the Vetus M4.56 lighter than the Bukh DV48 RME?
Yes. The Vetus M4.56 has a lower dry weight (206 kg) than the Bukh DV48 RME (275 kg) — around 69 kg lighter on a like-for-like basis.
Can I get the Vetus M4.56 with a saildrive?
Yes — the Vetus M4.56 is available with either a shaft drive or a saildrive, whereas the Bukh DV48 RME is offered as shaft-drive only. That makes the Vetus the more flexible choice for sailboat installations.
Which has the longer warranty, the Vetus M4.56 or the Bukh DV48 RME?
Vetus offers up to a 5-year warranty (3 years standard plus a 2-year driveline extension with a Vetus around-the-engine package). Bukh's Australian warranty terms vary — confirm the current Bukh cover with the supplier so you're comparing like-for-like.
Where can I buy the Vetus M4.56 in Victoria?
Luxfords Marine Industrial Solutions in Mornington is the authorised Victorian Vetus distributor and can supply, advise on and support the Vetus M4.56, including parts and around-the-engine packages. Call (03) 5973 6444 for a quote.
Get a Vetus M4.56 quote
Tell us about your vessel and we'll confirm whether the Vetus M4.56 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 M4.56
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