Matching a deep vee Lowe FS165 2011 against a modified vee Lowe Sportsman 16 2013 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 FS165 2011 at 16,4 ft versus Lowe Sportsman 16 2013 at 16,0 ft. At 1 lbs and 9 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 90 hp, the Lowe FS165 2011 has a 30-hp advantage over the Lowe Sportsman 16 2013's 60-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 FS165 2011 is rated for 6 passengers, while the Lowe Sportsman 16 2013 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Lowe FS165 2011 could be the deciding factor.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Lowe FS165 2011 comes in at 0 lbs per hp versus 0 lbs per hp for the Lowe Sportsman 16 2013. 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.