The Smoker Craft Pro Mag 162 2008 vs Smoker Craft S-8521 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 Smoker Craft S-8521 2006 measures 21,0 feet overall (2006), giving it roughly 5,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Smoker Craft Pro Mag 162 2008 at 16,0 feet (2008). At 96 lbs and 195 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 S-8521 2006 tops out at 125 hp. Engine specs for the Smoker Craft Pro Mag 162 2008 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Smoker Craft S-8521 2006 carries 24 gallons versus 2 gallons in the Smoker Craft Pro Mag 162 2008. 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 Smoker Craft S-8521 2006 is rated for 12 passengers, while the Smoker Craft Pro Mag 162 2008 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 S-8521 2006 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Smoker Craft S-8521 2006 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 12 passengers and at 21,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Smoker Craft Pro Mag 162 2008 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.