Matching a pontoon Princecraft Brio e 17 2013 against a modified vee Princecraft Pro Series 179 SC 2011 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Princecraft Brio e 17 2013 at 17,1 ft versus Princecraft Pro Series 179 SC 2011 at 17,3 ft. At 1 306 lbs and 1 229 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 135 hp, the Princecraft Pro Series 179 SC 2011 has a 125-hp advantage over the Princecraft Brio e 17 2013's 10-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Princecraft Brio e 17 2013 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Princecraft Pro Series 179 SC 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 Brio e 17 2013 could be the deciding factor.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Princecraft Pro Series 179 SC 2011 comes in at 9 lbs per hp versus 132 lbs per hp for the Princecraft Brio e 17 2013. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.