The Bennington 1650 FSi 2006 vs Bennington 18 SL 2013 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story: intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Bennington 1650 FSi 2006 at 16,0 ft versus Bennington 18 SL 2013 at 18,4 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Bennington 18 SL 2013 tips the scales at 1 663 lbs - 288 lbs less than the Bennington 1650 FSi 2006 at 1 375 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.
Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling - 50 hp for the Bennington 1650 FSi 2006 and 50 hp for the Bennington 18 SL 2013. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Bennington 1650 FSi 2006 carries 31 gallons versus 26 gallons in the Bennington 18 SL 2013. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 7 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 Bennington 1650 FSi 2006 comes in at 28 lbs per hp versus 33 lbs per hp for the Bennington 18 SL 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.
The Bennington 1650 FSi 2006 is an inflatable design - lighter, easier to store, and quicker to launch from a beach or dock without a slipway. The Bennington 18 SL 2013 is a rigid hull, which typically offers a more confident ride in chop and easier maintenance over the long term.
Bottom line: The Bennington 18 SL 2013 at 18,4 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Bennington 1650 FSi 2006 at 16,0 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.