Variable valve timing or like the new vehicles dropping four cylinders per v8 with a twin engine system

[Loghauler]

I was chatting with a mechanic and the system for vehicles works well with no load or rpm basically on the flat with no wind lol
But I wonder with twin v8 and a manual switch would it still be doable once up on plane and under load as to push a big boat

So would a the equivalent to a single high torque four hundred horsepower engine be enough to keep a minimum six to seven thousand pound boat up on plane ? and not be to sluggish

I might be asking too much of the power to weight ratio not to mention the drag that much displacement causes to even consider that system
And should concentrate on the right combo for volumetric efficiency in the engine build to gain fuel efficiency
But I wonder do any of the newer marine engines try vvt

Either way an Ls motor is going to be better than the old 350 s
Lighter because aluminum block and heads
And higher power

Hmmm the things that I ponder
As I get closer to laying eyes and hands on my prospective purchase

Who knows maybe the old pumps are still healthy and serviceable
But like the sailor that rows his tender into town muttering about spinach and olive oil
I want what I want