Matching a flat Alumacraft 1648 NCS 2008 against a modified vee Alumacraft PF170 2009 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Alumacraft 1648 NCS 2008 at 16,0 ft versus Alumacraft PF170 2009 at 17,0 ft. At 26 lbs and 8 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 60 hp, the Alumacraft PF170 2009 has a 25-hp advantage over the Alumacraft 1648 NCS 2008's 35-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Alumacraft 1648 NCS 2008 is rated for 5 passengers, while the Alumacraft PF170 2009 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Alumacraft 1648 NCS 2008 could be the deciding factor.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Alumacraft PF170 2009 comes in at 0 lbs per hp versus 1 lbs per hp for the Alumacraft 1648 NCS 2008. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
Bottom line: Choose the Alumacraft 1648 NCS 2008 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 5 passengers and at 16,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Alumacraft PF170 2009 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 4 that costs less to run day-to-day.