When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Champion Boats 198 CX 2009 and the Champion Boats 206 Elite 2006 are modified vee designs with composite 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?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Champion Boats 198 CX 2009 measures 19,7 feet overall (2009), giving it roughly 17,7 additional feet of deck space compared to the Champion Boats 206 Elite 2006 at 2,0 feet (2006). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Champion Boats 198 CX 2009 tips the scales at 195 lbs — 178 lbs more than the Champion Boats 206 Elite 2006 at 17 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 225 hp, the Champion Boats 198 CX 2009 has a 25-hp advantage over the Champion Boats 206 Elite 2006's 200-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 5 gal and 5 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
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: The Champion Boats 198 CX 2009 at 19,7 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Champion Boats 206 Elite 2006 at 2,0 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.