Matching a deep vee Riviera Yachts 43 Open Flybridge 2011 against a modified vee Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge 2009 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.

Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge 2009 measures 48,0 feet overall (2009), giving it roughly 3,3 additional feet of deck space compared to the Riviera Yachts 43 Open Flybridge 2011 at 44,7 feet (2011). 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 670 hp, the Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge 2009 has a 235-hp advantage over the Riviera Yachts 43 Open Flybridge 2011'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 2009 carries 608 gallons versus 476 gallons in the Riviera Yachts 43 Open Flybridge 2011. 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 2009 is rated for 14 passengers, while the Riviera Yachts 43 Open Flybridge 2011 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 2009 could be the deciding factor.