When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Key West 1720 CC 2008 and the Key West 196 Bay Reef 2008 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 1720 CC 2008 at 17,0 ft versus Key West 196 Bay Reef 2008 at 19,0 ft. At 115 lbs and 18 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 200 hp, the Key West 196 Bay Reef 2008 has a 80-hp advantage over the Key West 1720 CC 2008's 120-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Key West 1720 CC 2008 carries 31 gallons versus 6 gallons in the Key West 196 Bay Reef 2008. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

Both boats are rated for 5 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.