The ThunderJet Luxor 2009 is a modified-V design and the ThunderJet V162-Eco 2012 is a deep-V design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably 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 Luxor 2009 at 19,0 ft versus ThunderJet V162-Eco 2012 at 16,2 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the ThunderJet Luxor 2009 tips the scales at 2 600 lbs - 1 530 lbs more than the ThunderJet V162-Eco 2012 at 1 070 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 250 hp, the ThunderJet Luxor 2009 has a 160-hp advantage over the ThunderJet V162-Eco 2012's 90-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the ThunderJet Luxor 2009 carries 50 gallons versus 32 gallons in the ThunderJet V162-Eco 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 Luxor 2009 is rated for 5 passengers, while the ThunderJet V162-Eco 2012 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the ThunderJet Luxor 2009 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the ThunderJet Luxor 2009 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 5 passengers and at 19,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The ThunderJet V162-Eco 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 4 that costs less to run day-to-day.