Matching a modified vee Alumacraft PF170 2007 against a deep vee Alumacraft Trophy 185 2011 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 PF170 2007 at 17,0 ft versus Alumacraft Trophy 185 2011 at 18,7 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Alumacraft Trophy 185 2011 tips the scales at 178 lbs — 170 lbs less than the Alumacraft PF170 2007 at 8 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 175 hp, the Alumacraft Trophy 185 2011 has a 115-hp advantage over the Alumacraft PF170 2007's 60-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 Trophy 185 2011 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Alumacraft PF170 2007 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Alumacraft Trophy 185 2011 could be the deciding factor.