Matching a modified vee Contender 27 Open 2007 against a deep vee Contender 30 Tournament 2012 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Contender 30 Tournament 2012 measures 29,7 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 26,7 additional feet of deck space compared to the Contender 27 Open 2007 at 3,0 feet (2007). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Contender 30 Tournament 2012 tips the scales at 925 lbs — 892 lbs less than the Contender 27 Open 2007 at 33 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 600 hp, the Contender 30 Tournament 2012 has a 100-hp advantage over the Contender 27 Open 2007's 500-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Contender 30 Tournament 2012 carries 265 gallons versus 21 gallons in the Contender 27 Open 2007. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 9 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 Contender 30 Tournament 2012 at 29,7 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Contender 27 Open 2007 at 3,0 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.