The Chaparral Boats 235 SSi 2002 vs Chaparral Boats 244 Sunesta 2012 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 400 hp, the Chaparral Boats 244 Sunesta 2012 has a 180-hp advantage over the Chaparral Boats 235 SSi 2002's 220-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 6 gal and 6 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
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: Performance buyers should lean toward the Chaparral Boats 244 Sunesta 2012 and its 400-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Chaparral Boats 235 SSi 2002 with its 220-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.