Matching a modified vee ProGator 170V 2011 against a deep vee ProGator 178V 2008 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 — ProGator 170V 2011 at 17,0 ft versus ProGator 178V 2008 at 17,7 ft. At 95 lbs and 115 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 150 hp, the ProGator 178V 2008 has a 25-hp advantage over the ProGator 170V 2011's 125-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 ProGator 178V 2008 is rated for 4 passengers, while the ProGator 170V 2011 caps at 3. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the ProGator 178V 2008 could be the deciding factor.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The ProGator 178V 2008 comes in at 1 lbs per hp versus 1 lbs per hp for the ProGator 170V 2011. 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.
Bottom line: Choose the ProGator 178V 2008 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 4 passengers and at 17,7 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The ProGator 170V 2011 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 3 that costs less to run day-to-day.