When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Kayot S225 O/B 2005 and the Kayot V220i 2007 are modified vee designs with composite 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?

The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 320 hp, the Kayot V220i 2007 has a 95-hp advantage over the Kayot S225 O/B 2005's 225-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Kayot S225 O/B 2005 carries 57 gallons versus 45 gallons in the Kayot V220i 2007. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

Both boats are rated for 14 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.