The Smoker Craft Infinity E-820 CR 2004 vs Smoker Craft Ultima 172 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 Smoker Craft Ultima 172 2005 measures 17,0 feet overall (2005), giving it roughly 15,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Smoker Craft Infinity E-820 CR 2004 at 2,0 feet (2004). At 152 lbs and 126 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 Smoker Craft Ultima 172 2005 tops out at 125 hp. Engine specs for the Smoker Craft Infinity E-820 CR 2004 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Smoker Craft Infinity E-820 CR 2004 is rated for 9 passengers, while the Smoker Craft Ultima 172 2005 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Smoker Craft Infinity E-820 CR 2004 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Smoker Craft Infinity E-820 CR 2004 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 9 passengers and at 2,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Smoker Craft Ultima 172 2005 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.