When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Velocity 390 2009 and the Velocity F-20 Bullet 2008 are modified vee designs with composite 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?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Velocity 390 2009 measures 39,0 feet overall (2009), giving it roughly 37,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Velocity F-20 Bullet 2008 at 2,0 feet (2008). At 8 lbs and 1 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 700 hp, the Velocity 390 2009 has a 400-hp advantage over the Velocity F-20 Bullet 2008's 300-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 2 gal and 3 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Velocity 390 2009 is rated for 12 passengers, while the Velocity F-20 Bullet 2008 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Velocity 390 2009 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Velocity 390 2009 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 12 passengers and at 39,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Velocity F-20 Bullet 2008 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 6 that costs less to run day-to-day.