Matching a deep vee Larson LX 185 S I/O 2013 against a modified vee Larson LXi 238 I/O 2011 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Larson LXi 238 I/O 2011 measures 23,5 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 4,8 additional feet of deck space compared to the Larson LX 185 S I/O 2013 at 18,7 feet (2013). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Larson LXi 238 I/O 2011 tips the scales at 444 lbs — 240 lbs less than the Larson LX 185 S I/O 2013 at 204 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 320 hp, the Larson LXi 238 I/O 2011 has a 185-hp advantage over the Larson LX 185 S I/O 2013's 135-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 LXi 238 I/O 2011 carries 54 gallons versus 19 gallons in the Larson LX 185 S I/O 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 LX 185 S I/O 2013 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Larson LXi 238 I/O 2011 caps at 1. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Larson LX 185 S I/O 2013 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Larson LX 185 S I/O 2013 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 7 passengers and at 18,7 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Larson LXi 238 I/O 2011 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 1 that costs less to run day-to-day.