Matching a deep vee Contender 27 Tournament 2010 against a modified vee Contender 31 Open 2007 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Contender 27 Tournament 2010 at 29,7 ft versus Contender 31 Open 2007 at 32,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Contender 27 Tournament 2010 tips the scales at 925 lbs — 890 lbs more than the Contender 31 Open 2007 at 35 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 27 Tournament 2010 has a 100-hp advantage over the Contender 31 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 27 Tournament 2010 carries 265 gallons versus 24 gallons in the Contender 31 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 31 Open 2007 at 32,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Contender 27 Tournament 2010 at 29,7 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.