Matching a flat Excel Boats 1745SWV4 2012 against a modified vee Excel Boats 860CRSC 2011 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 — Excel Boats 1745SWV4 2012 at 17,0 ft versus Excel Boats 860CRSC 2011 at 18,2 ft. At 52 lbs and 97 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 Excel Boats 1745SWV4 2012 carries a rated maximum of 35 hp. Engine data for the Excel Boats 860CRSC 2011 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Excel Boats 860CRSC 2011 is rated for 5 passengers, while the Excel Boats 1745SWV4 2012 caps at 3. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Excel Boats 860CRSC 2011 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Excel Boats 860CRSC 2011 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 5 passengers and at 18,2 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Excel Boats 1745SWV4 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 3 that costs less to run day-to-day.