Both the Glastron GLS 255 2009 and the Glastron SSV 175 2011 are deep-V designs, both built in fibreglass, so the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?

Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Glastron GLS 255 2009 measures 25,0 feet overall (2009), giving it roughly 7,9 additional feet of deck space compared to the Glastron SSV 175 2011 at 17,1 feet (2011). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Glastron GLS 255 2009 tips the scales at 4 600 lbs - 2 560 lbs more than the Glastron SSV 175 2011 at 2 040 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 Glastron SSV 175 2011 tops out at 135 hp. Engine specs for the Glastron GLS 255 2009 aren't listed - confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Glastron GLS 255 2009 carries 56 gallons versus 23 gallons in the Glastron SSV 175 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 Glastron GLS 255 2009 is rated for 12 passengers, while the Glastron SSV 175 2011 caps at 7. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Glastron GLS 255 2009 could be the deciding factor.