Both the Starcraft Marine 1700 OB 2008 and the Starcraft Marine STX 206 Viper 2011 are modified-V designs, the first built in fibreglass and the second in aluminium, so the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?

Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Starcraft Marine STX 206 Viper 2011 measures 20,5 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 4,5 additional feet of deck space compared to the Starcraft Marine 1700 OB 2008 at 16,0 feet (2008). At 1 520 lbs and 1 535 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 Starcraft Marine STX 206 Viper 2011 has a 120-hp advantage over the Starcraft Marine 1700 OB 2008's 130-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Starcraft Marine STX 206 Viper 2011 carries 50 gallons versus 23 gallons in the Starcraft Marine 1700 OB 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 Starcraft Marine 1700 OB 2008 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Starcraft Marine STX 206 Viper 2011 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Starcraft Marine 1700 OB 2008 could be the deciding factor.