The Nitro 288 Sport 2005 vs Nitro 901 CDX SC 2005 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 Nitro 901 CDX SC 2005 measures 19,0 feet overall (2005), giving it roughly 17,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Nitro 288 Sport 2005 at 2,0 feet (2005). At 1 805 lbs and 1 715 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 Nitro 288 Sport 2005 has a 25-hp advantage over the Nitro 901 CDX SC 2005's 200-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Nitro 901 CDX SC 2005 carries 57 gallons versus 39 gallons in the Nitro 288 Sport 2005. 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 Nitro 288 Sport 2005 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Nitro 901 CDX SC 2005 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Nitro 288 Sport 2005 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Nitro 288 Sport 2005 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 7 passengers and at 2,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Nitro 901 CDX SC 2005 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 4 that costs less to run day-to-day.