When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Key West 1520 CC 2012 and the Key West 177 SK 2013 are modified 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?
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Key West 1520 CC 2012 at 15,2 ft versus Key West 177 SK 2013 at 17,3 ft. At 95 lbs and 11 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.
Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 80 hp for the Key West 1520 CC 2012 and 90 hp for the Key West 177 SK 2013. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Key West 177 SK 2013 carries 19 gallons versus 2 gallons in the Key West 1520 CC 2012. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
The Key West 1520 CC 2012 is rated for up to 4 people. Passenger data for the Key West 177 SK 2013 wasn't available.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Key West 177 SK 2013 comes in at 0 lbs per hp versus 1 lbs per hp for the Key West 1520 CC 2012. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
Bottom line: The Key West 177 SK 2013 at 17,3 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Key West 1520 CC 2012 at 15,2 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.