Matching a modified vee Lowe A160T 2012 against a deep vee Lowe FM185DC 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.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Lowe A160T 2012 at 16,1 ft versus Lowe FM185DC 2011 at 18,3 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Lowe A160T 2012 tips the scales at 661 lbs — 540 lbs more than the Lowe FM185DC 2011 at 121 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 150 hp, the Lowe FM185DC 2011 has a 110-hp advantage over the Lowe A160T 2012's 40-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Lowe FM185DC 2011 carries 38 gallons versus 6 gallons in the Lowe A160T 2012. 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 Lowe FM185DC 2011 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Lowe A160T 2012 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Lowe FM185DC 2011 could be the deciding factor.