The Skeeter FX 20 2012 vs Skeeter SX 170 2006 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 FX 20 2012 measures 20,2 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 4,2 additional feet of deck space compared to the Skeeter SX 170 2006 at 16,0 feet (2006). At 182 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 FX 20 2012 has a 135-hp advantage over the Skeeter SX 170 2006's 115-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 5 gal and 2 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Skeeter FX 20 2012 is rated for 5 passengers, while the Skeeter SX 170 2006 caps at 3. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Skeeter FX 20 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Skeeter FX 20 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 5 passengers and at 20,2 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Skeeter SX 170 2006 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 3 that costs less to run day-to-day.