Matching a deep vee Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 against a modified vee Larson SEi 180 Ski Fish I/O 2008 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 LX 160 O/B 2013 at 16,2 ft versus Larson SEi 180 Ski Fish I/O 2008 at 17,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 tips the scales at 1 549 lbs — 1 284 lbs more than the Larson SEi 180 Ski Fish I/O 2008 at 265 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 225 hp, the Larson SEi 180 Ski Fish I/O 2008 has a 135-hp advantage over the Larson LX 160 O/B 2013's 90-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Larson SEi 180 Ski Fish I/O 2008 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.

Both boats are rated for 6 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.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Larson SEi 180 Ski Fish I/O 2008 comes in at 1 lbs per hp versus 17 lbs per hp for the Larson LX 160 O/B 2013. 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.