The Century Boats 1701CC 2006 vs Century Boats 1902 Bay 2006 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 — Century Boats 1701CC 2006 at 17,0 ft versus Century Boats 1902 Bay 2006 at 18,0 ft. At 18 lbs and 2 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 150 hp, the Century Boats 1902 Bay 2006 has a 35-hp advantage over the Century Boats 1701CC 2006's 115-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Century Boats 1701CC 2006 carries 35 gallons versus 5 gallons in the Century Boats 1902 Bay 2006. 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.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Century Boats 1902 Bay 2006 comes in at 0 lbs per hp versus 0 lbs per hp for the Century Boats 1701CC 2006. 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: Performance buyers should lean toward the Century Boats 1902 Bay 2006 and its 150-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Century Boats 1701CC 2006 with its 115-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.