The Chaparral 246 SSi WT 2013 is a deep-V design and the Chaparral Sunesta 264 2011 is a modified-V design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Chaparral 246 SSi WT 2013 at 24,5 ft versus Chaparral Sunesta 264 2011 at 26,3 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Chaparral Sunesta 264 2011 tips the scales at 5 400 lbs - 1 000 lbs less than the Chaparral 246 SSi WT 2013 at 4 400 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 400 hp, the Chaparral Sunesta 264 2011 has a 80-hp advantage over the Chaparral 246 SSi WT 2013's 320-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Chaparral Sunesta 264 2011 carries 80 gallons versus 64 gallons in the Chaparral 246 SSi WT 2013. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Chaparral 246 SSi WT 2013 is rated for 14 passengers, while the Chaparral Sunesta 264 2011 caps at 8. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Chaparral 246 SSi WT 2013 could be the deciding factor.