Matching a deep vee Contender 35 Side 2012 against a modified vee Contender 35 Side Console 2007 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Contender 35 Side 2012 at 35,2 ft versus Contender 35 Side Console 2007 at 35,0 ft. At 75 lbs and 55 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.

Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 750 hp for the Contender 35 Side 2012 and 750 hp for the Contender 35 Side Console 2007. 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. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 34 gal and 34 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.

Both boats are rated for 10 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.