Matching a tunnel Lowe Frontier 1860 Tunnel Jet 2012 against a modified vee Lowe Stinger ST195 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 Frontier 1860 Tunnel Jet 2012 at 18,0 ft versus Lowe Stinger ST195 2012 at 18,7 ft. At 95 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.

The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 115 hp, the Lowe Stinger ST195 2012 has a 25-hp advantage over the Lowe Frontier 1860 Tunnel Jet 2012's 90-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 Frontier 1860 Tunnel Jet 2012 carries 19 gallons versus 2 gallons in the Lowe Stinger ST195 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 Frontier 1860 Tunnel Jet 2012 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Lowe Stinger ST195 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 Frontier 1860 Tunnel Jet 2012 could be the deciding factor.