The Stingray 195CS / CX 2013 is a deep-V design and the Stingray 204LR Sport Deck 2012 is a modified-V design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Stingray 195CS / CX 2013 at 19,5 ft versus Stingray 204LR Sport Deck 2012 at 20,4 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Stingray 195CS / CX 2013 tips the scales at 2 734 lbs - 244 lbs more than the Stingray 204LR Sport Deck 2012 at 2 490 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 Stingray 204LR Sport Deck 2012 tops out at 150 hp. Engine specs for the Stingray 195CS / CX 2013 aren't listed - confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Both carry nearly identical fuel loads - 35 gal and 35 gal - so range won't be a tiebreaker here.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Stingray 204LR Sport Deck 2012 is rated for 9 passengers, while the Stingray 195CS / CX 2013 caps at 8. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Stingray 204LR Sport Deck 2012 could be the deciding factor.