Matching a modified vee Alumacraft MV 1546 AW 2009 against a deep vee Alumacraft Navigator 165 CS 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 MV 1546 AW 2009 at 15,0 ft versus Alumacraft Navigator 165 CS 2012 at 16,7 ft. At 34 lbs and 105 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 90 hp, the Alumacraft Navigator 165 CS 2012 has a 65-hp advantage over the Alumacraft MV 1546 AW 2009'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 Navigator 165 CS 2012 is rated for 6 passengers, while the Alumacraft MV 1546 AW 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 Navigator 165 CS 2012 could be the deciding factor.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Alumacraft Navigator 165 CS 2012 comes in at 1 lbs per hp versus 1 lbs per hp for the Alumacraft MV 1546 AW 2009. 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 Navigator 165 CS 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 6 passengers and at 16,7 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Alumacraft MV 1546 AW 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.