The Mako Boats 171 Center Console 2006 vs Mako Boats 204 CC 2013 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Mako Boats 204 CC 2013 measures 20,3 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 3,3 additional feet of deck space compared to the Mako Boats 171 Center Console 2006 at 17,0 feet (2006). At 15 lbs and 2 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 225 hp, the Mako Boats 204 CC 2013 has a 100-hp advantage over the Mako Boats 171 Center Console 2006's 125-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Mako Boats 171 Center Console 2006 carries 37 gallons versus 7 gallons in the Mako Boats 204 CC 2013. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Mako Boats 204 CC 2013 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Mako Boats 171 Center Console 2006 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Mako Boats 204 CC 2013 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Mako Boats 204 CC 2013 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 8 passengers and at 20,3 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Mako Boats 171 Center Console 2006 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.