The Smoker Craft Infinity A-8520 2005 vs Smoker Craft Infinity M-816 CR 2004 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 Smoker Craft Infinity M-816 CR 2004 measures 16,0 feet overall (2004), giving it roughly 14,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Smoker Craft Infinity A-8520 2005 at 2,0 feet (2005). At 158 lbs and 115 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.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Smoker Craft Infinity A-8520 2005 is rated for 12 passengers, while the Smoker Craft Infinity M-816 CR 2004 caps at 8. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Smoker Craft Infinity A-8520 2005 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Smoker Craft Infinity A-8520 2005 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 12 passengers and at 2,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Smoker Craft Infinity M-816 CR 2004 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 8 that costs less to run day-to-day.