When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the ThunderJet Denali 2011 and the ThunderJet Maxim Classic 2012 are modified vee designs with aluminum construction — 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?

The ThunderJet Maxim Classic 2012 tops out at 4 hp. Engine specs for the ThunderJet Denali 2011 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the ThunderJet Denali 2011 carries 48 gallons versus 11 gallons in the ThunderJet Maxim Classic 2012. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The ThunderJet Maxim Classic 2012 is rated for 7 passengers, while the ThunderJet Denali 2011 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the ThunderJet Maxim Classic 2012 could be the deciding factor.