The ProGator 180V 2009 is a deep-V design and the ProGator Lil' Gator 2012 is a modified-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 - ProGator 180V 2009 at 18,8 ft versus ProGator Lil' Gator 2012 at 15,8 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the ProGator 180V 2009 tips the scales at 1 150 lbs - 800 lbs more than the ProGator Lil' Gator 2012 at 350 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 175 hp, the ProGator 180V 2009 has a 115-hp advantage over the ProGator Lil' Gator 2012's 60-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 180V 2009 is rated for 4 passengers, while the ProGator Lil' Gator 2012 caps at 3. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the ProGator 180V 2009 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the ProGator 180V 2009 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 4 passengers and at 18,8 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The ProGator Lil' Gator 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 3 that costs less to run day-to-day.