When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Glastron GS 289 SC 2011 and the Glastron SSV 170 2009 are deep vee designs with fiberglass construction — 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 GS 289 SC 2011 measures 28,8 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 12,8 additional feet of deck space compared to the Glastron SSV 170 2009 at 16,0 feet (2009). At 65 lbs and 12 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 Glastron GS 289 SC 2011 carries a rated maximum of 400 hp. Engine data for the Glastron SSV 170 2009 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Glastron GS 289 SC 2011 carries 84 gallons versus 23 gallons in the Glastron SSV 170 2009. 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 GS 289 SC 2011 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Glastron SSV 170 2009 caps at 7. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Glastron GS 289 SC 2011 could be the deciding factor.