Matching a modified vee Larson 180 Sport 2009 against a deep vee Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Larson 180 Sport 2009 at 17,0 ft versus Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 at 16,2 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Larson 180 Sport 2009 tips the scales at 2 375 lbs — 826 lbs more than the Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 at 1 549 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 tops out at 90 hp. Engine specs for the Larson 180 Sport 2009 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Larson 180 Sport 2009 carries 23 gallons versus 19 gallons in the Larson LX 160 O/B 2013. 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 Larson 180 Sport 2009 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Larson 180 Sport 2009 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Larson 180 Sport 2009 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 8 passengers and at 17,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 6 that costs less to run day-to-day.