The Lowe ST160 2009 vs Lowe Stinger 170 2006 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 ST160 2009 at 16,0 ft versus Lowe Stinger 170 2006 at 17,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Lowe Stinger 170 2006 tips the scales at 1 095 lbs — 230 lbs less than the Lowe ST160 2009 at 865 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 75 hp, the Lowe Stinger 170 2006 has a 25-hp advantage over the Lowe ST160 2009's 50-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 ST160 2009 carries 13 gallons versus 2 gallons in the Lowe Stinger 170 2006. 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 Stinger 170 2006 comes in at 15 lbs per hp versus 17 lbs per hp for the Lowe ST160 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.