When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Campion Chase 530ob 2012 and the Campion Chase 700i BR 2012 are deep vee designs with fiberglass 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 Campion Chase 700i BR 2012 measures 26,2 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 8,3 additional feet of deck space compared to the Campion Chase 530ob 2012 at 17,8 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Campion Chase 700i BR 2012 tips the scales at 455 lbs — 437 lbs less than the Campion Chase 530ob 2012 at 18 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 430 hp, the Campion Chase 700i BR 2012 has a 280-hp advantage over the Campion Chase 530ob 2012's 150-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Campion Chase 700i BR 2012 carries 69 gallons versus 24 gallons in the Campion Chase 530ob 2012. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 7 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Bottom line: The Campion Chase 700i BR 2012 at 26,2 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Campion Chase 530ob 2012 at 17,8 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.