Matching a deep vee Lowe FM165 Classic 2012 against a modified vee Lowe RV190 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 FM165 Classic 2012 at 16,4 ft versus Lowe RV190 2011 at 18,4 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Lowe FM165 Classic 2012 tips the scales at 955 lbs — 872 lbs more than the Lowe RV190 2011 at 83 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 — 75 hp for the Lowe FM165 Classic 2012 and 75 hp for the Lowe RV190 2011. 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.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Lowe FM165 Classic 2012 is rated for 6 passengers, while the Lowe RV190 2011 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Lowe FM165 Classic 2012 could be the deciding factor.