The Lowe Boats FS 1700 2021 vs Lowe ST175 2009 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Lowe Boats FS 1700 2021 at 16,1 ft versus Lowe ST175 2009 at 17,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Lowe Boats FS 1700 2021 tips the scales at 1 265 lbs — 270 lbs more than the Lowe ST175 2009 at 995 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.

The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 115 hp, the Lowe Boats FS 1700 2021 has a 40-hp advantage over the Lowe ST175 2009's 75-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 Boats FS 1700 2021 carries 26 gallons versus 13 gallons in the Lowe ST175 2009. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

Both boats are rated for 4 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Lowe Boats FS 1700 2021 comes in at 11 lbs per hp versus 13 lbs per hp for the Lowe ST175 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.

The Lowe Boats FS 1700 2021 is trailerable — a genuine lifestyle advantage at this size. The Lowe ST175 2009 isn't listed as trailerable, which may mean a permanent berth or mooring is required.