273 Chrysler Question

Jim,
You're right about the availability in regards to autos, but Chrysler as well as Ford and GM continued to provide certain engines for sometime after they were discontinued in autos. And this one is surely a 273 based on the engine ID tag on the bellhousing, which according to Chrysler's serial number series placed it as a '70 model engine. I've seen them also in CC's as late as 71-72.
Thanks,
Reid

Does anyone out there have a 273 Chrysler V8 in a Correct Craft? My buddy Marshall picked up the near perfect '70 Mustang that was on e-bay last month. It's an original 200 HP 4V engine. Never having run one of these before I'm not or wasn't sure what to expect. The boat came with a 12x14 prop which I thought was a bit much with only 200 HP, plus the boat has less out-of-hole power than I expected, but it's only 273 CI's afterall. So I don't know if it's just tired (haven't done a compression check yet) as there are no signs or info regarding a rebuild. It does however, manage to turn the 12x14 4500 RPM and runs a good 46 mph, and I can't see dropping to a 12x13 prop and turning 4800. I'd just like to know if I'm expecting more low end power than 273 can muster or if everything is normal as the top end is somehow outstanding.
-Reid