Matching a modified vee Alumacraft Riveted Jon MV 1448 (15 & 20) 2012 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Alumacraft VB 1860 W Special Tunnel 2013 measures 18,0 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 4,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Alumacraft Riveted Jon MV 1448 (15 & 20) 2012 at 14,0 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Alumacraft VB 1860 W Special Tunnel 2013 tips the scales at 875 lbs — 849 lbs less than the Alumacraft Riveted Jon MV 1448 (15 & 20) 2012 at 26 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 115 hp, the Alumacraft VB 1860 W Special Tunnel 2013 has a 90-hp advantage over the Alumacraft Riveted Jon MV 1448 (15 & 20) 2012's 25-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
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 Riveted Jon MV 1448 (15 & 20) 2012 comes in at 1 lbs per hp versus 8 lbs per hp for the Alumacraft VB 1860 W Special Tunnel 2013. 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: The Alumacraft VB 1860 W Special Tunnel 2013 at 18,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Alumacraft Riveted Jon MV 1448 (15 & 20) 2012 at 14,0 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.