Both the Sundance SV171 2009 and the Sundance SV186 2009 are modified-V designs, both built in fibreglass, 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?

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Sundance SV171 2009 at 17,1 ft versus Sundance SV186 2009 at 18,1 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Sundance SV186 2009 tips the scales at 1 570 lbs - 140 lbs less than the Sundance SV171 2009 at 1 430 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 - 90 hp for the Sundance SV171 2009 and 90 hp for the Sundance SV186 2009. 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 Sundance SV186 2009 carries 40 gallons versus 34 gallons in the Sundance SV171 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.