The Princecraft Pro Series 198 SC 2011 is a modified-V design and the Princecraft Sport 172 WS 2012 is a deep-V design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably 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 Pro Series 198 SC 2011 at 19,4 ft versus Princecraft Sport 172 WS 2012 at 17,4 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Princecraft Pro Series 198 SC 2011 tips the scales at 1 566 lbs - 311 lbs more than the Princecraft Sport 172 WS 2012 at 1 255 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 Sport 172 WS 2012 tops out at 125 hp. Engine specs for the Princecraft Pro Series 198 SC 2011 aren't listed - confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Princecraft Pro Series 198 SC 2011 carries 60 gallons versus 26 gallons in the Princecraft Sport 172 WS 2012. 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 Pro Series 198 SC 2011 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Princecraft Sport 172 WS 2012 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Princecraft Pro Series 198 SC 2011 could be the deciding factor.