The Cobalt Boats 302 2016 vs Cobalt Boats R3 Surf 2019 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 Cobalt Boats R3 Surf 2019 tops out at 300 hp. Engine specs for the Cobalt Boats 302 2016 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Cobalt Boats R3 Surf 2019 carries 47 gallons versus 15 gallons in the Cobalt Boats 302 2016. 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 Cobalt Boats 302 2016 is rated for 9 passengers, while the Cobalt Boats R3 Surf 2019 caps at 7. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Cobalt Boats 302 2016 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Cobalt Boats 302 2016 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 9 passengers and at 30,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Cobalt Boats R3 Surf 2019 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 7 that costs less to run day-to-day.