Volvo-penta D6-330

VOLVO PENTA’S D6 is an in-line six-cylinder diesel engine displacing 5.5 litres and capable of power outputs up to 435hp depending on the model. The D6-330/DP powering this Southern XP996 produces 330hp at 3500rpm and 810Nm of torque at a useful 2500rpm, transferred to the water through a Volvo Penta Aquamatic duo-prop leg.

The D6 Series of engines features cast iron blocks and cylinder heads, common rail electronic fuel injection, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, turbocharger and after-cooling, a large swept volume and Volvo Electronic Vessel Control (EVC).

Installed in the Southern XP996, the low-emissions D6330/DP returns a fuel burn of 1.2 litres per nautical mile at an optimum cruise speed of 18-20 knots. Top speed is 38 knots.

A barbecue on the transom would probably take care of most of the cooking, so the galley is basic: a small sink with a single-burner stove, a 68-litre fridge and four drawers to stow your groceries.

The boat carries 120 litres of fresh water; a gas califont supplies hot water to the galley sink and the shower in the toilet compartment, accessed off the cockpit. This private head/shower compartment is a great feature of the boat, albeit fairly standard on boats of this size.

The cockpit stretches for miles. It has six rocket launchers across the roof and six rod holders with cupholders in the coamings and across the transom. There is a salt water washdown, live bait tank, rod storage in the sides, dive bottle storage and mounting points for a baitboard. The Tekdek coamings are high for security and there is good toe room around the sides.

With a 20-degree deadrise the boat is stable at rest,