When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Bayliner 160 OB 2011 and the Bayliner 196 Bowrider 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 — Bayliner 160 OB 2011 at 16,2 ft versus Bayliner 196 Bowrider 2013 at 18,8 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Bayliner 196 Bowrider 2013 tips the scales at 2 278 lbs — 946 lbs less than the Bayliner 160 OB 2011 at 1 332 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 Bayliner 160 OB 2011 carries a rated maximum of 90 hp. Engine data for the Bayliner 196 Bowrider 2013 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Bayliner 196 Bowrider 2013 carries 23 gallons versus 18 gallons in the Bayliner 160 OB 2011. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

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.