Matching a modified vee Sylvan Expedition Sport 1700 DC 2008 against a pontoon Sylvan Mirage Cruise 818 CR 2013 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 — Sylvan Expedition Sport 1700 DC 2008 at 17,0 ft versus Sylvan Mirage Cruise 818 CR 2013 at 18,8 ft. At 122 lbs and 155 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 135 hp, the Sylvan Expedition Sport 1700 DC 2008 has a 130-hp advantage over the Sylvan Mirage Cruise 818 CR 2013's 5-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Sylvan Mirage Cruise 818 CR 2013 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Sylvan Expedition Sport 1700 DC 2008 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Sylvan Mirage Cruise 818 CR 2013 could be the deciding factor.