When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Lund 170WPE 2005 and the Lund A 14 2005 are modified vee designs with aluminum construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Lund 170WPE 2005 at 17,0 ft versus Lund A 14 2005 at 14,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Lund 170WPE 2005 tips the scales at 995 lbs — 800 lbs more than the Lund A 14 2005 at 195 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 Lund 170WPE 2005 has a 100-hp advantage over the Lund A 14 2005's 15-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
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 Lund 170WPE 2005 comes in at 9 lbs per hp versus 13 lbs per hp for the Lund A 14 2005. 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.
Bottom line: The Lund 170WPE 2005 at 17,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Lund A 14 2005 at 14,0 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.