When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Polar Kraft Frontier V 179 SC 2012 and the Polar Kraft MV 2096 XCC 2011 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 — Polar Kraft Frontier V 179 SC 2012 at 17,9 ft versus Polar Kraft MV 2096 XCC 2011 at 20,3 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Polar Kraft MV 2096 XCC 2011 tips the scales at 1 492 lbs — 357 lbs less than the Polar Kraft Frontier V 179 SC 2012 at 1 135 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.
Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 135 hp for the Polar Kraft Frontier V 179 SC 2012 and 140 hp for the Polar Kraft MV 2096 XCC 2011. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup.
Both boats are rated for 6 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.
Bottom line: The Polar Kraft MV 2096 XCC 2011 at 20,3 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Polar Kraft Frontier V 179 SC 2012 at 17,9 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.