The Princecraft 20 2004 vs Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 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 Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 measures 17,3 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 15,3 additional feet of deck space compared to the Princecraft 20 2004 at 2,0 feet (2004). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Princecraft 20 2004 tips the scales at 1 502 lbs — 203 lbs more than the Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 at 1 299 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 Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 tops out at 135 hp. Engine specs for the Princecraft 20 2004 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Princecraft 20 2004 carries 18 gallons versus 4 gallons in the Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011. 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 Princecraft 20 2004 is rated for 13 passengers, while the Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Princecraft 20 2004 could be the deciding factor.