When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Bass Cat Phelix 2012 and the Bass Cat Sabre FTD 2013 are modified vee designs with fiberglass construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Bass Cat Phelix 2012 at 17,0 ft versus Bass Cat Sabre FTD 2013 at 18,1 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Bass Cat Sabre FTD 2013 tips the scales at 1 215 lbs — 690 lbs less than the Bass Cat Phelix 2012 at 525 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 Bass Cat Sabre FTD 2013 has a 90-hp advantage over the Bass Cat Phelix 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.
Bottom line: Performance buyers should lean toward the Bass Cat Sabre FTD 2013 and its 115-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Bass Cat Phelix 2012 with its 25-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.