I have owned a Scout 172 for 3 years. It's a "big" small boat that is very fast, stable, and maneuvers very well. Plenty of storage space and super quality materials and craftsmanship. Two fly casters can fish very comfortably and the same for 3 spinfishers. It gets a little wet in the stern if two men are fishing in back due to the self-bailing scuppers. I generally plug the scuppers in that situation. Also, it rides better with one or two persons sitting up front because the hull, especially bow is so light. I have my sights set on the new 185 Sportfish in a couple years or so but am very happy with the 172. How much are they asking for tthe 172 new? By the way, my boat is powered by an 85 Yamaha which is more than adequate.
Good luck!