The Skeeter WX 1790 T 2009 vs Skeeter WX 1880 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Skeeter WX 1790 T 2009 at 17,0 ft versus Skeeter WX 1880 2006 at 18,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Skeeter WX 1880 2006 tips the scales at 1 800 lbs - 500 lbs less than the Skeeter WX 1790 T 2009 at 1 300 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 200 hp, the Skeeter WX 1880 2006 has a 120-hp advantage over the Skeeter WX 1790 T 2009's 80-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 WX 1880 2006 carries 40 gallons versus 33 gallons in the Skeeter WX 1790 T 2009. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 6 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.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Skeeter WX 1880 2006 comes in at 9 lbs per hp versus 16 lbs per hp for the Skeeter WX 1790 T 2009. 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: Performance buyers should lean toward the Skeeter WX 1880 2006 and its 200-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Skeeter WX 1790 T 2009 with its 80-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.