Matching a deep vee Alumacraft Competitor 185 CS 2012 against a modified vee Alumacraft V-16 (20 in.) 2012 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 Competitor 185 CS 2012 at 18,7 ft versus Alumacraft V-16 (20 in.) 2012 at 16,6 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Alumacraft V-16 (20 in.) 2012 tips the scales at 285 lbs — 143 lbs less than the Alumacraft Competitor 185 CS 2012 at 142 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.

The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 150 hp, the Alumacraft Competitor 185 CS 2012 has a 125-hp advantage over the Alumacraft V-16 (20 in.) 2012's 25-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 Competitor 185 CS 2012 is rated for 6 passengers, while the Alumacraft V-16 (20 in.) 2012 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Alumacraft Competitor 185 CS 2012 could be the deciding factor.