The Sylvan Explorer 1700 DC 2008 vs Sylvan Select 1600 SC 2008 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Sylvan Explorer 1700 DC 2008 at 17,0 ft versus Sylvan Select 1600 SC 2008 at 16,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Sylvan Select 1600 SC 2008 tips the scales at 725 lbs — 714 lbs less than the Sylvan Explorer 1700 DC 2008 at 11 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 135 hp, the Sylvan Explorer 1700 DC 2008 has a 75-hp advantage over the Sylvan Select 1600 SC 2008's 60-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.

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.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Sylvan Explorer 1700 DC 2008 comes in at 0 lbs per hp versus 12 lbs per hp for the Sylvan Select 1600 SC 2008. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.