The Crownline 185 SS 2012 is a modified-V design and the Crownline 21 SS 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 - Crownline 185 SS 2012 at 18,4 ft versus Crownline 21 SS 2013 at 20,8 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Crownline 21 SS 2013 tips the scales at 3 700 lbs - 500 lbs less than the Crownline 185 SS 2012 at 3 200 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 320 hp, the Crownline 21 SS 2013 has a 100-hp advantage over the Crownline 185 SS 2012's 220-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Crownline 21 SS 2013 carries 41 gallons versus 25 gallons in the Crownline 185 SS 2012. 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 Crownline 21 SS 2013 is rated for 10 passengers, while the Crownline 185 SS 2012 caps at 8. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Crownline 21 SS 2013 could be the deciding factor.