The Princecraft PW1860VT 2008 is a modified-V design and the Princecraft Sport 174 WS 2013 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 PW1860VT 2008 at 18,0 ft versus Princecraft Sport 174 WS 2013 at 17,4 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Princecraft Sport 174 WS 2013 tips the scales at 1 319 lbs - 724 lbs less than the Princecraft PW1860VT 2008 at 595 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 125 hp, the Princecraft Sport 174 WS 2013 has a 75-hp advantage over the Princecraft PW1860VT 2008's 50-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.

Both boats are rated for 7 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.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Princecraft Sport 174 WS 2013 comes in at 11 lbs per hp versus 12 lbs per hp for the Princecraft PW1860VT 2008. 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.