The Skeeter 20i 2007 vs Skeeter SX 170 2005 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Skeeter SX 170 2005 measures 16,0 feet overall (2005), giving it roughly 14,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Skeeter 20i 2007 at 2,0 feet (2007). At 185 lbs and 119 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 250 hp, the Skeeter 20i 2007 has a 135-hp advantage over the Skeeter SX 170 2005's 115-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Skeeter 20i 2007 carries 48 gallons versus 2 gallons in the Skeeter SX 170 2005. 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 Skeeter 20i 2007 is rated for 5 passengers, while the Skeeter SX 170 2005 caps at 3. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Skeeter 20i 2007 could be the deciding factor.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Skeeter 20i 2007 comes in at 1 lbs per hp versus 1 lbs per hp for the Skeeter SX 170 2005. 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 Skeeter 20i 2007 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 5 passengers and at 2,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Skeeter SX 170 2005 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 3 that costs less to run day-to-day.