The Charger 396 2012 vs Charger 475 2007 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Charger 396 2012 measures 19,8 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 17,8 additional feet of deck space compared to the Charger 475 2007 at 2,0 feet (2007). At 16 lbs and 18 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 225 hp, the Charger 396 2012 has a 219-hp advantage over the Charger 475 2007's 6-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Charger 396 2012 carries 44 gallons versus 4 gallons in the Charger 475 2007. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Charger 475 2007 is rated for 6 passengers, while the Charger 396 2012 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Charger 475 2007 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Charger 475 2007 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 6 passengers and at 2,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Charger 396 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.