Actually the entry for the Venture series is somewhere around 50 degrees, tapering off to that 4-5 degrees aft. The Classic series is 4 degrees, so the difference isn't much aft.
The deeper entry does give a slightly better ride in a chop, and means you can maintain a bit more speed while maintaining a comfortable ride. I compare the Venture hull more to a modified V than the Classic's truer Dory shape. But they have more in common than not.
Inside, the 25 has more headroom, and the classic finished fiberglass interior. The Venture has a full fiberglass liner, with upholstered interior surfaces and headliner. Having just ridden in a 23 Venture we sold, I can say the boat seems quieter, with no condensation on the interior surfaces (except the windows, of course).
The 25 has a self bailing cockpit, which means it needs aft rails for safety (standard). The 26V has a full height transom, which eliminates the two jump seats in the aft corners like the 25 has. The 26V has storage boxes port and starboard in the transom, the 25 has storage boxes in the deck. The 26V has storage in the cockpit steps.
The 26V has tilt wheel, and an upgraded wheel and helm seat, as well as additional storage drawers. The 26V has the sliding forward dinette seat to create a forward facing seat, the 25 has a stationary seat base, but has the back rest change position. The 26V has a slightly larger head.
I like both boats, and right now we have a new 2009 26V in stock (will be at the Seattle Boat Show) and a used 2005 25 Cruiser in the water at our dock. With 175 HP Engine and trailer, the 26V is reduced to $99,995. The used 2005 is $67,300 with 150 and 15 Hondas, but no trailer. New trailer would be $5250.
There will not be a 25 Classic at the Boat Show as neither we nor Master Marine has one in stock.
Hope this helps!