Matching a deep vee Lowe FM165 2010 against a modified vee Lowe Stinger ST175 Camo 2012 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 2010 at 16,4 ft versus Lowe Stinger ST175 Camo 2012 at 17,4 ft. At 955 lbs and 995 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.

Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 75 hp for the Lowe FM165 2010 and 75 hp for the Lowe Stinger ST175 Camo 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 Lowe FM165 2010 carries 27 gallons versus 2 gallons in the Lowe Stinger ST175 Camo 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 FM165 2010 is rated for 6 passengers, while the Lowe Stinger ST175 Camo 2012 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 2010 could be the deciding factor.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Lowe FM165 2010 comes in at 13 lbs per hp versus 13 lbs per hp for the Lowe Stinger ST175 Camo 2012. 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.