Thanks to all for opinions.....first of all....the 87 octane issue was not about fuel prices (what a$$ could worry about them...$3.55 or $3.75..who gives a
f$%& at that price-point)!! We have had issues with premium availability on some lakes and octane boost will not do it!!!! Wife agreed to the big-$ boat if we could use 87 octane. Already have the 525s in route....found out that Ilmor can program the 625 and 710s to run on 87-89 octane no problemo.....next boat for sure!!!!
On a practical note; if the 525s can do 118-120 (light layup) and the Ilmors can do 130-140.....is it REALLY worth the dough ($40K-$50K plus upgrade)??? To some, YES, to others who work for the money (no inheritence) and pay cash for everything it is a big-fat NO!!!

No way in hell unless you Whipple them. If they are Ilmore 710s.