Matching a deep vee Riviera Yachts 43 Open Flybridge with IPS 2012 against a modified vee Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge 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 — Riviera Yachts 43 Open Flybridge with IPS 2012 at 47,4 ft versus Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge 2008 at 48,0 ft. At 313 lbs and 394 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 1 340 hp, the Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge 2008 has a 905-hp advantage over the Riviera Yachts 43 Open Flybridge with IPS 2012's 435-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge 2008 carries 608 gallons versus 476 gallons in the Riviera Yachts 43 Open Flybridge with IPS 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 Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge 2008 is rated for 14 passengers, while the Riviera Yachts 43 Open Flybridge with IPS 2012 caps at 13. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge 2008 could be the deciding factor.