When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Riviera Yachts 445 SUV 2013 and the Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge Shaft Drive 2012 are deep vee designs with fiberglass construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?

Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge Shaft Drive 2012 measures 51,3 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 3,8 additional feet of deck space compared to the Riviera Yachts 445 SUV 2013 at 47,4 feet (2013). At 303 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 Shaft Drive 2012 has a 235-hp advantage over the Riviera Yachts 445 SUV 2013's 435-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.

Both boats are rated for 14 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.