Matching a deep vee Lowe FM175 2009 against a modified vee Lowe ST190 2009 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 FM175 2009 at 17,0 ft versus Lowe ST190 2009 at 18,0 ft. At 113 lbs and 106 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 — 115 hp for the Lowe FM175 2009 and 115 hp for the Lowe ST190 2009. 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 FM175 2009 carries 27 gallons versus 2 gallons in the Lowe ST190 2009. 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 FM175 2009 is rated for 6 passengers, while the Lowe ST190 2009 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Lowe FM175 2009 could be the deciding factor.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Lowe ST190 2009 comes in at 1 lbs per hp versus 1 lbs per hp for the Lowe FM175 2009. 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.