Matching a deep vee ThunderJet 185 Explorer 2013 against a modified vee ThunderJet Luxor 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 — ThunderJet 185 Explorer 2013 at 20,4 ft versus ThunderJet Luxor 2012 at 19,0 ft. At 13 lbs and 24 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 150 hp, the ThunderJet 185 Explorer 2013 has a 118-hp advantage over the ThunderJet Luxor 2012's 32-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 48 gal and 48 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The ThunderJet 185 Explorer 2013 is rated for 6 passengers, while the ThunderJet Luxor 2012 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the ThunderJet 185 Explorer 2013 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the ThunderJet 185 Explorer 2013 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 6 passengers and at 20,4 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The ThunderJet Luxor 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.