When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Larson Cabrio 350 2009 and the Larson LXi 288 I/O 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?

Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Larson Cabrio 350 2009 measures 36,0 feet overall (2009), giving it roughly 7,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Larson LXi 288 I/O 2008 at 29,0 feet (2008). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Larson LXi 288 I/O 2008 tips the scales at 6 225 lbs — 6 211 lbs less than the Larson Cabrio 350 2009 at 14 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 LXi 288 I/O 2008 tops out at 420 hp. Engine specs for the Larson Cabrio 350 2009 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.