When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Misty Harbor 2080EF 2013 and the Misty Harbor 2185GM 2012 are pontoon 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?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Misty Harbor 2185GM 2012 measures 22,0 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 20,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Misty Harbor 2080EF 2013 at 2,0 feet (2013). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Misty Harbor 2185GM 2012 tips the scales at 1 525 lbs — 1 510 lbs less than the Misty Harbor 2080EF 2013 at 15 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 90 hp, the Misty Harbor 2080EF 2013 has a 81-hp advantage over the Misty Harbor 2185GM 2012's 9-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
Both boats are rated for 11 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.
Both are 2-tube and 2-tube pontoon designs respectively. Tube diameter and gauge affect stability and load capacity — more so than most buyers realize when comparing on paper.
Bottom line: The Misty Harbor 2185GM 2012 at 22,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Misty Harbor 2080EF 2013 at 2,0 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.