In October 2006 Volvo announced the new SX and DPS drives replacing the current SX and DP-S. When I was at the dealer buying my boat last September I noticed my 06 and 07 all had the current DP-S drives. Only now I start to see some 2008 with the new DPS drives. The fastest way to recognize them is with the anode on the cavitation plate. Then you notice the sked design and water intake are different.

Here are the list of claimed improvements from Volvo:
* Increased performance: A new exhaust system reduces exhaust backpressure, which in turn increases engine efficiency.
* Simpler maintenance: It is possible to replace the drive anode while the boat is in the water. The shaft bearing no longer needs lubricating. Water intake is cleanable.
* Reduced weight: 9 kilograms less for a complete package.
* Integrated power trim system in the transom shield: Makes life easier for boat builders. Separate installation of the pump and hoses is no longer necessary.
* Improved accessibility: The bolted joint for the drive is easily accessible and there is more room to mount the drive onto the transom shield. The gearshift is located on the side, which facilitates installation of gearshift wires.
* Hydrodynamically improved design giving better speed and performance.
* Even more durable internal drive train for longer service life.
* Lower weight for better performance.
* Reduced maintenance need (e.g. only 2 anodes and maintenance-free gimbal ring).
* Higher capacity through-the-drive exhausts for greatly reduced sound and smell.
* Integrated speedometer pick up.

I can't find much talk of this new generation drive anywhere.
Anyone tried to compared them in the water? Any performance difference?

Current

New Generation


Notice on the right where the shaft goes in. There is now a separate peace.

Kind of looks like the same profile as the ocean series?

I would say only the top part is similar.