El Mistico was on the leading edge of technology when she was built in Ballard in 1927.  According to an article in Power Boat Magazine, "The application of the low-powered oil engine to the propulsion of medium sized yachts and workboats is a comparatively new thing."

From the January 1928 edition of Power Boat Magazine:  A note on El Mistico's efficiency is that her owner, E. Michelson, reports that she was cruised to Vancouver and returned to Seattle and then cruised for four weekend trips for a total fuel cost of $6.10.