Matching a deep vee Stratos 1760DV 2009 against a modified vee Stratos 186 XT 2012 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely 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 — Stratos 1760DV 2009 at 17,0 ft versus Stratos 186 XT 2012 at 18,8 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Stratos 186 XT 2012 tips the scales at 1 475 lbs — 1 326 lbs less than the Stratos 1760DV 2009 at 149 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.

Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 115 hp for the Stratos 1760DV 2009 and 115 hp for the Stratos 186 XT 2012. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Stratos 186 XT 2012 carries 23 gallons versus 3 gallons in the Stratos 1760DV 2009. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

Both boats are rated for 5 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.