Matching a deep vee Alumacraft Classic 165 CS 2010 against a tunnel Alumacraft VB 1860 W Special Tunnel 2013 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 Classic 165 CS 2010 at 16,4 ft versus Alumacraft VB 1860 W Special Tunnel 2013 at 18,0 ft. At 895 lbs and 875 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 115 hp, the Alumacraft VB 1860 W Special Tunnel 2013 has a 40-hp advantage over the Alumacraft Classic 165 CS 2010's 75-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 2 gal and 2 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.

Both boats are rated for 5 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Alumacraft VB 1860 W Special Tunnel 2013 comes in at 8 lbs per hp versus 12 lbs per hp for the Alumacraft Classic 165 CS 2010. 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.