Both the Larson LX 710 I/O 2011 and the Larson LX 850 Classic I/O 2012 are modified-V designs, the first built in fibreglass and the second in composite, so 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 - Larson LX 710 I/O 2011 at 17,1 ft versus Larson LX 850 Classic I/O 2012 at 18,4 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Larson LX 850 Classic I/O 2012 tips the scales at 2 450 lbs - 410 lbs less than the Larson LX 710 I/O 2011 at 2 040 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.

Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling - 135 hp for the Larson LX 710 I/O 2011 and 135 hp for the Larson LX 850 Classic I/O 2012. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Larson LX 710 I/O 2011 carries 23 gallons versus 19 gallons in the Larson LX 850 Classic I/O 2012. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

Both boats are rated for 7 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.