The Crestliner Ambush 16 2011 is a modified-V design and the Crestliner Pro Tiller 1850 2013 is a deep-V design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably 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 - Crestliner Ambush 16 2011 at 16,0 ft versus Crestliner Pro Tiller 1850 2013 at 18,7 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Crestliner Pro Tiller 1850 2013 tips the scales at 1 400 lbs - 500 lbs less than the Crestliner Ambush 16 2011 at 900 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 90 hp, the Crestliner Pro Tiller 1850 2013 has a 30-hp advantage over the Crestliner Ambush 16 2011's 60-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Crestliner Pro Tiller 1850 2013 carries 37 gallons versus 16 gallons in the Crestliner Ambush 16 2011. 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 Crestliner Pro Tiller 1850 2013 is rated for 6 passengers, while the Crestliner Ambush 16 2011 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Crestliner Pro Tiller 1850 2013 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Crestliner Pro Tiller 1850 2013 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 6 passengers and at 18,7 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Crestliner Ambush 16 2011 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 4 that costs less to run day-to-day.