Matching a modified vee Hewescraft 180 SM 2012 against a deep vee Hewescraft 220 OP ET 2012 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Hewescraft 220 OP ET 2012 measures 24,3 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 5,8 additional feet of deck space compared to the Hewescraft 180 SM 2012 at 18,4 feet (2012). At 105 lbs and 24 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 250 hp, the Hewescraft 220 OP ET 2012 has a 135-hp advantage over the Hewescraft 180 SM 2012's 115-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Hewescraft 220 OP ET 2012 carries 85 gallons versus 24 gallons in the Hewescraft 180 SM 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 Hewescraft 220 OP ET 2012 is rated for 11 passengers, while the Hewescraft 180 SM 2012 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Hewescraft 220 OP ET 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Hewescraft 220 OP ET 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 11 passengers and at 24,3 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Hewescraft 180 SM 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.