Matching a modified vee Lowe Frontier 1860SC 2012 against a deep vee Lowe FS175 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 Frontier 1860SC 2012 at 18,0 ft versus Lowe FS175 2011 at 17,3 ft. At 97 lbs and 115 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 FS175 2011 has a 25-hp advantage over the Lowe Frontier 1860SC 2012's 90-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Lowe Frontier 1860SC 2012 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Lowe FS175 2011 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Lowe Frontier 1860SC 2012 could be the deciding factor.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Lowe FS175 2011 comes in at 1 lbs per hp versus 1 lbs per hp for the Lowe Frontier 1860SC 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.