i had 3 different power options on my 86' 222 ccp, 200, 225, and 250. I think it depends on the model. I wouldn't suggest anything lower than a 175hp on the ccp, as the deeper vee needs more hp to plane. I've explained my thoughts here on the subject of maxing out power, but less hp needs more rpms to plane and cruise a boat, i.e., a lower rpm for both parameters in my opinion should translate into longer engine life. And as far as fuel consumption, a 175hp planing and cruising at 4100rpm, a 250 doing the same performance at 3500 rpm, negating a perceived fuel savings w/ the lower hp.
Now these were ballpark figures so don't quote me exactly, but that was my experience between the 200-250hp's on my model. NOW if its not the ccp model, a modified vee doesn't need as much umph, so elaborate if u can